Turkish forestry minister says Izmir wildfire under control, no immediate danger to residential areas

By Meric Urer, Halil Fidan and Mustafa Gungor

IZMIR, Türkiye (AA) - The intensity of the forest fire in Türkiye's western Izmir province has been reduced, and there is no immediate threat to the city, Turkish Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said on Saturday.

Referring to the ongoing firefighting efforts, Yumakli said that 69 of the wildfires across Türkiye have been brought under control, while six remain active.

Speaking to reporters in Izmir, he emphasized that the current situation does not warrant an international call for assistance.

Both fires in Izmir's Karsiyaka district originated in forested areas, and were likely caused by a campfire by three picnickers, he said.

Despite the region experiencing unpredictable winds, Yumakli expressed relief that no lives have been lost in any of the fires.

He called for continued caution over the coming days, highlighting that the high-alert period will remain in effect until mid-September.

"We are in a critical period and must remain vigilant until Sunday. Our teams will respond day and night to any incidents," Yumakli said.

The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) reported that a total of 131 agricultural and forest fires have occurred across the country in the past week.

As part of ongoing safety measures, 3,971 people have been evacuated to secure areas, including 1,430 from Izmir, 1,475 from Manisa, 516 from Bolu, and 550 from Aydin, AFAD said on X.