Wildfire Battle in Turkey Intensifies as Heatwave Increases Risk

Ibrahim Yumaklı, Turkey’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, addressed the press from Ankara’s Fire Management Center, sharing updates on the country’s ongoing wildfire emergencies. He announced that the Bursa Kestel and Kahramanmaraş Onikişubat fires are “largely under control,” while progress is also being made in Karabük, where the fire’s “energy has been significantly reduced.”

“We will soon have good news to share regarding the Karabük fire,” Yumaklı assured.

Critical Fire Zones and Response Efforts

The Bursa wildfires, now in their third day, have seen major containment progress in Kestel, and the intensity of the Harmancık fire has diminished. However, the Harmancık blaze remains active.

Yumaklı confirmed that cooling operations continue in all controlled areas due to extreme heat conditions, which increase the risk of reignition.

“Cooling efforts will continue until the risk drops to zero,” he said, emphasizing full vigilance.

In Karabük’s Safranbolu district, officials report a mostly stabilized situation with only minor smoldering pockets remaining. These areas are being closely monitored with one firefighting aircraft and 16 helicopters focusing on inaccessible hotspots.

Meanwhile, firefighting teams continue to battle the Harmancık wildfire with an arsenal of 5 planes, 30 helicopters, 855 ground vehicles, and over 2,300 personnel.

Tragedy Amid Heroic Efforts

Amid these efforts, a tragic accident occurred during operations. A firefighting tanker overturned, resulting in the deaths of three civilians.

“We offer our deepest condolences to the families of those we lost,” Yumaklı stated.

In a somber warning, he noted that this week poses an even greater fire risk than the previous one, urging the public and authorities to remain on high alert.

“This week is more dangerous than last. We will stay on high alert,” Yumaklı declared.