Ten dead in western Turkey wildfires

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - At least ten forest workers were killed on Wednesday while fighting forest fires in western Turkey’s Eskisehir province, authorities said. 

Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said that five forestry workers and five rescuers were killed after being “unfortunately trapped in the fire when a sudden change in wind fanned the flames toward them.” 

“The very high temperatures, high winds, and low humidity have made this no longer a simple forest fire. We have lost 10 of our dear brothers and sisters. I have nothing more to say. My condolences to our nation,” he added. 

At least 11 “major” forest fires, including nine that broke out on Wednesday, are currently being battled by Turkish authorities and forestry workers, according to the minister.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

“I pray for God’s mercy upon our brothers and sisters who are fighting at the expense of their lives to protect our forests, and offer my condolences to their families and our nation,” Erdogan said. 

Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc later announced that an investigation has been launched into the deadly incident. 

Turkey has been hit by a flurry of wildfires recently, which are commonplace in summertime.

[Source: Rudaw English]