Authorities announced on Sunday that the forest fires that have been devastating areas around Izmir, Turkey's third most populous city, over the past four days have largely been contained. Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli stated that while efforts to extinguish remaining hotspots are ongoing, the majority of the flames have been controlled in one location.
"There is no risk in the section overlooking the city. Firefighters have cornered the fire in a valley. Thank God, this fire in the Yamanlar area of Izmir is now under control," Yumakli informed the press. He also mentioned that among the new fires that erupted on Saturday in the province of Izmir, one that threatened the seaside resort of Cesme was also contained without casualties, partly due to the swift evacuation of residents.
Flames continued to burn through steep valleys in a district approximately 20km south of Izmir, but at a reduced pace, according to Yumakli. At least 43 buildings were damaged in Izmir, and 26 people were hospitalized due to injuries related to the fire, reported Urban Planning Minister Murat Kurum. While wild animals, cats, and dogs perished in the blaze, no human casualties have been reported.
Scientists attribute the increased likelihood, duration, and intensity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves, to climate change, which heightens the risk of wildfires. The Izmir fire, which began on Thursday and rapidly spread to residential areas due to 50km/h winds, prompted the dispatch of firefighters from several towns, along with mobilization of army and police forces. Meanwhile, five other fires continue to burn in forest areas across various cities in Turkey, including Bolu in the northwest and Aydin in the west. The Izmir fire stands as the largest Turkey has witnessed this summer, following a June fire in Mardin in southeastern Turkey that claimed 15 lives.
