Wildfires that have affected Turkey in recent weeks are now approaching the city of Bursa. This has led to large-scale evacuations and the death of a firefighter.
Authorities evacuated around 1,765 people from the area around Bursa, Turkey’s fourth-largest city. Firefighters have deployed approximately 1,900 personnel to control the fires. So far, the wildfires have burned more than 7,000 acres. One firefighter died of a heart attack while working at the scene.
Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said fire crews tackled 84 wildfires on Saturday. The north-western regions, including Karabük, faced the greatest threat. Fires in Karabük have been burning since Tuesday.
Turkey recorded its highest temperature ever on Friday. The General Directorate of Meteorology confirmed a reading of 50.5°C (122.9°F) in Şırnak province, in the south-east.
In recent weeks, the fires have caused 14 deaths. Among those who died were 10 rescue volunteers and forestry workers killed in a fire in Eskişehir, western Turkey, on Wednesday.
Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç said prosecutors have investigated fires in 33 provinces since 26 June. They have taken legal action against 97 suspects.
The fires also threaten to spread into neighbouring Greece and Bulgaria.
Bulgaria’s National Fire Service Chief, Alexander Djartov, said they requested help from European Union partners. Aircraft from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, France, Hungary, and Sweden are expected to assist from Sunday.
Turkey’s government has also sent military personnel to support firefighters in several areas.
