Dardanelles: New Wildfire – Evacuations and Disruptions

A major wildfire is raging in the Dardanelles for the second time in a month, causing evacuations and traffic disruptions. The fire started near the town of Kepez and spread rapidly due to strong winds, reaching forest and residential areas in Güzelyalı.

Ten aircraft and nine helicopters are involved in the firefighting efforts, along with ground forces with 75 water tankers and 760 personnel. Three villages were evacuated as a precaution, with 2,090 residents being relocated, while 77 citizens are hospitalized with respiratory problems.

The Dardanelles airport was temporarily closed, and traffic in the straits was suspended. Significant damage has been reported in Güzelyalı, where several villas were destroyed. In total, Turkey is facing 55 forest fire fronts in various regions.