Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı, reported successfully controlling wildfires in İzmir Yamanlar, Urla, and Bolu Göynük.
Speaking to the press at Yamanlar Seyirtepe in İzmir’s Karşıyaka district, Yumaklı shared positive updates about the recent firefighting efforts.
“From yesterday to today, we have been battling eight active wildfires. Fortunately, there is no longer a risk for the city in İzmir Karşıyaka Yamanlar. Our teams managed to confine the burning areas to a valley, and I am pleased to inform you that the fire is now under control. Cooling operations will continue,” Yumaklı stated.
He noted that the wildfire in Bolu Göynük occurred over a large, rugged area filled with cliffs, posing significant challenges for firefighting teams. “Thankfully, I can now confirm that this fire is also under control. Cooling efforts will proceed here as well. Despite occasional light smoke, there is no cause for concern,” Yumaklı added.
The minister recounted another fire that broke out last evening in a bushland area of İzmir Urla. Rapid response teams immediately intervened, including local administrations, municipalities, and police units under the coordination of the Governor. An adjacent residential site was evacuated as a precaution, but no houses were damaged, nor were there any casualties. “Cooling operations here are ongoing with two planes and one helicopter. This area is also under control,” Yumaklı informed.
As for the wildfire in İzmir’s Menderes district, Yumaklı highlighted the difficult terrain and lack of access routes. “Our teams have been fighting the fire on the ground throughout the night. Currently, four planes and eleven helicopters are extensively deployed. The fire’s intensity has decreased and is close to being fully controlled,” he said.
Yumaklı also mentioned that the fire in Aydın’s Bozdoğan district has been ongoing for three days. Intensive efforts involve five planes, eleven helicopters, and numerous ground units.
Reflecting on the massive efforts, Yumaklı stated: “Strong winds, capable of uprooting a flagpole, challenged our teams, but they have brought the situation to a stable point.” He further discussed the prolonged wildfire in Manisa Gördes, which spread due to fierce winds. “Efforts here continue with one plane, ten helicopters, and a significant ground force,” Yumaklı informed.
He provided reassurances on the progress in Karabük’s Ovacık and Uşak’s Eşme districts, adding that concrete updates will be shared later in the day.
Highlighting the contributions of the General Directorate of Forestry, founded in 1839, Yumaklı expressed admiration for the courage and dedication of their 25,000 employees, along with support from 105 helicopters, planes, 14 UAVs, and volunteers.
Expressing gratitude for the widespread support, the minister emphasized collective efforts from public and local administrations, stating, “We focused on extinguishing fires across Turkey without any political distinctions. Our efforts were bolstered by the prayers of our people, and I’m immensely thankful to them.”
Yumaklı extended a special thanks to President Erdoğan for his unwavering support throughout the firefighting operations. He also appreciated the government of Azerbaijan for their assistance.
Urging public vigilance into the coming weeks, Yumaklı concluded, “We need to exercise utmost caution until the weekend. Please avoid any activities that could cause a fire. Our efforts will continue through September 15. I thank everyone who has been supportive.”