10 firefighters and volunteers killed in Turkey's Eskisehir wildfire. Photo courtesy: The Independent
(The Post News)- A wildfire in Turkey’s Eskisehir province claimed the lives of at least 10 firefighters and rescue workers, with 14 others injured. The blaze began in the Seyitgazi district and spread rapidly due to strong winds and scorching temperatures exceeding 40°C.
The fire became uncontrollable when a sudden change in wind direction trapped 24 firefighters and rescue workers, causing them to be severely burned. Five forestry workers and five rescue personnel from the AKUT organization were among those killed.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered his condolences to the families of the victims, praising their sacrifice to protect the country’s forests. The government has launched an investigation into the incident, with two prosecutors assigned to the case.
The wildfires in Turkey have been exacerbated by extreme heat and dry conditions, with seven fires still burning in five central and western provinces. The country’s General Directorate of Forestry has warned of high fire risk due to volatile wind conditions and scorching temperatures.
In 2025, Turkey has already seen over 850 wildfires across 30 provinces, burning more than 16,000 hectares of land. The government has responded by deploying 12,000 personnel, 60 helicopters, and 20 planes to combat the fires.
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