Wildfires Rage in Turkey, Threatening Historical Sites and Homes
Turkey is facing a severe wildfire crisis as dry, hot, and windy weather conditions fuel multiple blazes across the country. Firefighters are battling tirelessly to contain the fires, which have already caused significant damage to forests, homes, and historical landmarks.
Threat to Gallipoli Battle Site
One of the most concerning fires is threatening the Gallipoli battle site, where World War I memorials and graves have been endangered. The fire has reached Canterbury Cemetery, where New Zealand soldiers are interred. Images show soot-blackened gravestones in a scorched garden overlooking the Aegean Sea. The fire was brought under control but has left a chilling reminder of the fragility of these historical sites.
Continuous Fight Against Wildfires
While the fire at Gallipoli is under control, the battle against other wildfires continues throughout Turkey. Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli reported that 17 of 47 forest fires were still active as of Friday. In the west coast city of Izmir, a fire threatened houses on the outskirts. Residents fled their homes as ash fell around them.
Evacuations and Emergency Response
District Mayor Irfan Onal urged residents in the Dogancay region of Izmir to evacuate immediately. Dense smoke filled the air, and stray animals were removed from municipal shelters. Flames reportedly reached heights of 120 feet, approaching a housing complex. Off-duty firefighters and police water cannons were deployed to fight the blaze.
In Manisa Province, a fire burned for several days in the rural district of Gordes. Almost 80 homes were evacuated, and severe fire damage was reported in the village of Karayakup. In Bolu, firefighters worked for a second day to quell a blaze.
National Mobilization and Warnings
Turkey has mobilized dozens of aircraft, hundreds of vehicles, and thousands of personnel to combat the wildfires. Minister Yumakli emphasized the heightened risk of wildfires over the weekend due to low humidity, high winds, and high temperatures. He urged citizens to avoid lighting fires outside and to be highly vigilant.
The General Directorate of Forestry warned of a 70% increased risk of wildfires in western Turkey due to the prevailing weather conditions. They advised against outdoor fires for the next 10 days.
International Context and Lessons Learned
Turkey’s wildfire crisis follows similar events in neighboring Greece and southeastern Turkey. Earlier this week, a fire in Greece burned an area almost twice the size of Manhattan, destroying homes and killing one person. In June, a fire in southeastern Turkey killed 11 people and injured dozens.
These events highlight the urgent need for global cooperation and improved wildfire management strategies. Climate change and extreme weather conditions are exacerbating wildfire risks worldwide, and effective preparedness and response measures are crucial to protect lives and livelihoods.
