69 out of 72 wildfires in Türkiye under control, Izmir residential areas safe
Efforts continue to combat forest fires, Izmir, August 16, 2024 (AA Photo)
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli Saturday provided an update on the current forest fire situation during a statement to journalists, reporting 6 fires remain active in Türkiye.
“The intensity of the fire in Yamanlar, Izmir has diminished. No residential areas are currently at risk,” he added.
Yumakli stated that 69 of 72 fires have been brought under control, saying: “There are six active fires. The fires in Didim and Izmir’s Odemis are under control. The energy of the fire in Bolu Goynuk has decreased.”
“The energy of the Yamanlar fire in Izmir has also decreased. No fires are threatening residential areas,” he added.
Minister Yumakli added that the alert status will continue until Sept.15, saying: “There is no situation requiring an international call. We are in a period where everyone needs to be careful until next Sunday. High humidity, high temperatures and strong winds create environments that are prone to burning. Our alert status continues until Sept. 15.”
The fire in Izmir is still ongoing in the forested areas within the borders of Karsıyaka, Bayraklı, and Cigli districts, as well as some residential areas and industrial sites.
Thick smoke can be seen from many parts of the city, and some houses and vehicles near the forested areas have been damaged because of the spreading fire.
