On Wednesday, Turkiye was shaken by a devastating wildfire in the northwestern region, claiming the lives of at least 10 firefighters and rescue workers. The tragedy unfolded in Eskisehir province, where the victims were part of a 24-member team caught in the fire’s destructive path. The wildfire, fueled by intense heat and strong winds, has become one of the deadliest in the country this year.
According to Turkiye’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Ibrahim Yumakli, the victims included five forestry personnel and five rescuers. These brave individuals were trapped by the rapidly advancing flames when sudden changes in wind direction caught them off guard. Fourteen others were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Minister Yumakli addressed the nation in a televised speech, expressing deep sorrow: “We have lost five forest workers and five rescuers,” he said. The victims’ bodies were recovered after the fire was brought under control, though local reports have described the horrific scene, with some sources stating that the team was “burned alive” due to the fire’s swift spread.
In the wake of the tragedy, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his condolences on social media, offering prayers for the victims and their families. He praised their bravery in the face of danger, highlighting their efforts to protect Turkiye’s forests at the cost of their lives.
This devastating event comes at a time when Turkiye is grappling with a wave of wildfires sparked by a dangerous combination of extreme temperatures and strong winds. These conditions have led to a series of blazes between Istanbul and Ankara, resulting in the evacuation of several villages and putting residential areas at risk. Minister Yumakli warned that these dangerous conditions are expected to persist, urging the public to remain cautious.
Authorities have confirmed that two prosecutors have been assigned to investigate the incident. This tragedy adds to the growing toll of wildfire-related deaths in Turkiye, which now stands at 13 for the year. Earlier in July, another deadly blaze in the Izmir province claimed the lives of three individuals, including two forestry workers.
The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in Turkiye have raised concerns about climate change and the country’s preparedness. Environmental organizations and opposition parties have criticized the government for not doing enough to combat these deadly blazes, particularly with regard to aerial firefighting resources.
As Turkiye continues to battle these wildfires, the nation remains united in mourning for the lives lost in the line of duty.
Also Read: Europe Scorched by Early Heatwave as Wildfires Force Tens of Thousands to Evacuate
