A devastating wildfire in Turkey’s Eskisehir province has claimed the lives of at least 10 individuals, including forestry workers and volunteer rescuers. The blaze broke out on Tuesday morning in the Seyitgazi district and rapidly spread due to shifting wind conditions. The sudden change trapped 24 people within the fire zone, according to Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli.
Ten Rescuers Killed Battling Blaze, Nation Mourns Loss of Brave Firefighters
Among those who perished were five government forestry workers and five volunteers from the AKUT Search and Rescue Association, a well-known non-governmental disaster relief organization. In addition to the fatalities, 14 forestry workers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals for treatment. These brave individuals were part of the frontline response, trying to contain the spreading inferno.
The tragedy sparked a wave of condolences from both national leaders and local officials. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed sorrow in a message posted on X, praying for the fallen and offering support to their families. Nebi Hatipoğlu, a lawmaker from the region, echoed the sentiment, calling the victims “heroic” and noting the deep sense of grief experienced by the community.
Rising Heat and Spreading Wildfires Intensify Crisis Across Multiple Provinces in Turkey
This incident is part of a broader crisis unfolding across Turkey, where soaring temperatures—exceeding 40°C (104°F)—have intensified wildfire risks. Currently, fires are burning in at least five provinces: Sakarya, Bilecik, İzmir, Karabük, Manisa, and Eskisehir. The extreme heat, combined with dry vegetation and strong winds, has created conditions ripe for uncontrollable wildfires.
The tragedy highlights the immense risks faced by emergency responders, especially volunteers. AKUT, known for its search and rescue missions during disasters, played a key role in this firefighting effort and suffered significant losses.
Hundreds of fires have erupted across Turkey this summer, displacing tens of thousands and overwhelming local resources. The sacrifice of these responders underscores both the urgency and human cost of battling climate-driven disasters.
