On Wednesday, a tragic incident unfolded in northwestern Turkey as at least 10 firefighters and rescue workers lost their lives while combating a wildfire, according to Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli. Numerous others sustained injuries in the line of duty.
In a tragic incident, five forestry workers alongside five members of the AKUT rescue organisation lost their lives while combating a wildfire that was sweeping through a forested region in Eskisehir province, according to Yumakli. According to reports, a minimum of 14 additional rescuers and forestry workers have been hospitalised.
This year’s wildfires, exacerbated by strong winds, high temperatures, and dry conditions, have now resulted in a total of 13 fatalities across the country.
The minister reported that a sudden change in wind direction led to a rapid shift in the flames, ultimately encircling the forest workers. The cause of the fire remains unclear at this time.
Yumakli reported that firefighters are actively combating seven wildfires across Turkey, including one in Eskisehir. He noted that extreme heat and unpredictable wind conditions are anticipated in the region on Thursday.
“Beginning tomorrow, we will encounter unprecedented temperatures and significant shifts in wind patterns.” He urged all 86 million citizens to remain vigilant and to exercise heightened caution once again.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his condolences to the families, stating that the victims had made the ultimate sacrifice “to protect our forests at the cost of their lives.”
The country’s justice minister announced that two prosecutors have been designated to investigate the incident.
Since June 26, Turkey has been engaged in a struggle against wildfires.
Earlier this month, a wildfire near the town of Odemis in Izmir province resulted in the tragic deaths of an older man and two forestry workers.
