Forest fire in Izmir forces evacuations amid strong winds
A forest fire in the Izmir province on Turkey's west coast, driven by strong winds, is advancing towards residential areas and has necessitated the evacuation of some residents, local authorities reported on Friday.
Meanwhile, firefighters are working to control other wildfires in the northern regions.
Fourteen aeroplanes, thirty-one helicopters, and nearly three hundred trucks are deployed to combat the fires. Approximately one thousand four hundred firefighters are engaged in the efforts.
According to reports from the Turkish press, the fire in Izmir ignited late Thursday evening in the Karsiyaka district for unknown reasons. At the time, firefighters were already addressing three other fires in northwest Turkey.
Images broadcast by local television stations depict flames consuming extensive forested areas, with thick clouds of black smoke rising above the city.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
