The Turkey wildfires in the western Izmir province have been partly contained, officials said. Firefighters have brought six of the nine major fires under control after the blazes killed two people and forced thousands to flee.
The fires were made worse by strong winds and faulty power lines. Izmir Governor Suleyman Elban said shifting wind directions made it harder to control the flames.
Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said, “Thanks to overnight efforts and early morning air support, the Cesme fire is now under control.” Efforts continue in the Odemis and Buca areas.
Read More: Bangladesh Women’s Football Team Makes History with Big Opportunity
Nine planes, 22 helicopters, and more than 1,100 firefighting vehicles are working across the region. Tragically, two people died: an 81-year-old bedridden man and a backhoe operator helping in the firefighting effort.
Turkey wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe due to hotter, drier summers caused by climate change. Scientists have called the Mediterranean region a “wildfire hotspot.”
