A severe forest fire has been raging in the Aegean resort city of Izmir, Turkey, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate. The fire began on Thursday in the Karsiyaka district and has since spread to residential areas, damaging 16 buildings and leading to the evacuation of five neighborhoods. Authorities evacuated around 900 residents as strong winds pushed the flames further, making firefighting efforts extremely challenging.
The fire, which has already affected approximately 1,600 hectares (3,900 acres) of land, continues to be fought with two planes and eleven helicopters. However, efforts were hampered earlier by winds blowing at 50 km/h (30 mph), preventing the use of water-bombing aircraft. Reinforcements, including military personnel, have been brought in from other cities to assist with containment.
In addition to the Izmir fire, six other forest fires are currently burning across Turkey, including in Bolu and Aydin. The fires are part of a broader pattern of extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change, which has led to more frequent and intense heatwaves and wildfires.
The situation remains critical, with authorities urging residents to stay alert as firefighting efforts continue.
