Firefighters in Turkey are battling a large wildfire in the northwestern province of Çanakkale, where strong winds have intensified the blaze and forced precautionary evacuations. The fire, which broke out on Monday in the central part of the province, has prompted the closure of roads, the local airport, and parts of the Dardanelles Strait.
According to city governor Ömer Toraman, around 700 personnel, supported by airplanes, helicopters, and ground vehicles, are working around the clock to bring the flames under control.
Authorities have evacuated at-risk areas, including a university campus, a military zone, and residential neighborhoods. Residents have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel to keep routes clear for emergency services.
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Local television footage showed towering plumes of smoke rising over the hills, while water-spraying police vehicles battled fires that had reached some homes. Anadolu news agency reported that parts of the blaze had spread dangerously close to residential buildings.
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Meteorological data showed temperatures in the region climbing to 33°C, with winds reaching speeds of up to 66 kilometers per hour — conditions that have significantly complicated firefighting efforts.
So far, 50 people have been treated for smoke inhalation at nearby medical facilities, though none are reported to be in life-threatening condition. The cause of the wildfire is yet to be determined, but emergency teams remain on high alert as hot, windy weather persists.
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