Wildfires Ravage Multiple Regions Across Türkiye: Crews Battle Blazes in İzmir, Manisa, and Antalya

Amid soaring summer temperatures, Türkiye is once again facing a series of devastating wildfires. Fires erupted in various provinces, prompting intensive response efforts from both air and ground units. While some fires have been brought under control, İzmir, Manisa, and Antalya remain active hotspots where firefighting efforts continue around the clock.

Days-Long Firefighting in Manisa’s Forests

One of the most critical incidents began on June 28 in Manisa’s Akhisar district, where a wildfire broke out near Karaköy. Allegedly sparked by a beekeeper attempting to calm his bees using smoke, the fire quickly escalated due to strong winds.

Despite partial containment yesterday, the flames surged again, fueled by wind. Efforts have intensified with:

• 3 aircraft

• 5 helicopters

• 43 water tenders

• 15 fire trucks

• 42 tankers

• 31 heavy-duty machines

The suspect, D.B., has been detained on charges of negligence for unintentionally causing the fire.

Homes Threatened, Farms Damaged in Antalya

Another major wildfire erupted in Gazipaşa, Antalya, specifically in the Beyobası district. Fueled by strong winds, the fire spread quickly through the forest, prompting a large-scale response.

Initial response included:

• 3 helicopters

• 8 fire engines

• 3 water supply vehicles

• Dozens of fire personnel

Authorities confirmed that one house was evacuated and avocado and olive orchards sustained damage. The fire has since been contained, thanks to swift intervention.

Fires Persist in İzmir’s Menderes and Seferihisar

Firefighting teams in İzmir’s Menderes and Seferihisar districts have been actively working to control several wildfires, with aerial and ground units engaged throughout the night and into the next day.

While the full scale of the destruction is still being assessed, forested areas, farmland, and even residential zones have reported damages.

Türkiye’s Fire Response Stretched Thin

As high temperatures and strong winds persist, emergency crews across the country remain on high alert. Local and national authorities are urging the public to exercise caution, particularly in rural and forest-adjacent areas.

These recent wildfires underscore the urgent need for stronger fire prevention measures, improved surveillance, and public awareness as Türkiye braces for more extreme summer conditions.