Widespread Forest Fire in Çanakkale, Turkey
Following a widespread forest fire in Çanakkale province in northwestern Turkey, local authorities have initiated emergency measures. The fire, which started on Friday afternoon near Sarıkayılı village, rapidly spread due to strong winds.
According to initial reports, the fire first broke out on agricultural land and spread to adjacent forested areas due to dry weather conditions and strong winds. Rescue teams have been dispatched to the scene.
As the fire expanded, local authorities decided to evacuate some areas. Çanakkale State Hospital was partially evacuated, and patients were transferred to other healthcare facilities. Additionally, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University was temporarily closed and evacuated due to its proximity to the incident zone.
In the Bayramiç area, where another fire was reported, three neighboring villages were evacuated. Local authorities stated that no casualties have been reported so far.
To combat the fire, eight firefighting aircraft and four helicopters have been deployed to the region. Since these aircraft require water collection from the Çanakkale Strait, ship traffic in the waterway has been temporarily restricted.
Çanakkale Airport was also closed to non-essential flights until 20:00 on Friday. This decision was made due to intense smoke from the fire and the need to use airport space for firefighting operations.
Local authorities announced that although the fire continues, there is no immediate threat to Çanakkale city center. Weather conditions and wind direction are being continuously monitored, and residents will be notified if conditions change.
