Turkey is battling one of the worst wildfire crises in its history, as massive blazes rages across multiple provinces, fuelled by record-breaking heat, fierce winds, and prolonged drought. The fires have left at least 13 people dead. Moreover, they have forced the evacuation of over 50,000 residents, and they seek emergency shelter.
The infernos started in late June. Since then, they have scorched thousands of hectares of farmland across the country. The worst-hit provinces include Izmir, Bilecik, Eskişehir, Bursa, Karabük, Sakarya, Manisa, Adana, and Mersin.
On July 23, 2025, flames trapped 10 forestry workers in Eskişehir. They died before rescue teams could reach them. Earlier in July, two more workers died in İzmir. In addition, a firefighter in Bursa died of a heart attack on July 27. To this effect, 14 people have suffered injuries. Most victims were severely burned or suffered from smoke inhalation.
The government launched a full emergency response. Over 42,000 people were evacuated from fire-hit areas in İzmir alone. In Bursa, fires threatened residential areas. As a result, officials evacuated 1,765 people from villages northeast of the city.
Authorities shut down major roads, including the Ankara–Karabük highway, as fires approached urban centers. In addition, the İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport also faced temporary closure due to heavy smoke. On July 25, the government declared İzmir and Bilecik disaster zones. This allowed faster aid, rescue support, and emergency funds.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan described the situation as a “national tragedy,” urging unity and international support. Over 25,000 emergency workers are battling the fires. They include firefighters, soldiers, and local volunteers. They are using water-bombing aircraft, helicopters, police water cannons, and heavy machinery to control the flames.The disaster comes during a record heatwave.
On July 25, Turkey recorded its highest temperature — 50.5°C in Şırnak province. Moreover, more than 130 locations broke their previous July heat records, worsening the fire risk. Strong winds of 50 km/h and low humidity further fueled the fires, especially in forested regions. Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced investigations into 97 suspects across 33 provinces. Some may have caused fires intentionally or by negligence.
Authorities are cracking down on illegal burning and careless behavior in high-risk areas. Environmental experts link the fires to climate change. In addition, they warn of more frequent disasters in the coming years. Cyprus, Greece, and Bulgaria are also fighting wildfires this week. The entire Mediterranean faces severe environmental threats.
“This is not just seasonal — it’s the new reality,” said climate expert Ayşegül Demir. She urged urgent action on forest safety.
Emergency shelters now house evacuees. Communities and aid groups are sending food, water, and medical help. They also need donations of masks, fire-resistant gear, and basic supplies to support ongoing efforts. Conditions remain dangerous. Moreover, fires still burn in multiple provinces, and the crisis may continue for weeks
