Fires that have ravaged forests around Turkey’s third most populous city of İzmir for the past four days have largely been brought under control, authorities said Sunday, Agence France-Presse reported.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı said efforts to douse hotspots were continuing but that the flames were now largely confined to one place.
“There is no risk in the section overlooking the city. Firefighters have contained the blaze in a valley. Thank God, this fire in the Yamanlar area of İzmir is now under control,” Yumaklı told reporters.
Among the new fires that broke out Saturday in the province of İzmir, one threatening the seaside resort of Çeşme was also brought under control without any injuries, which was partly due to the prompt evacuation of residents, the minister said.
Flames continued to burn steep valleys in a district some 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of İzmir, but at a slower pace, Yumaklı added.
At least 43 buildings were damaged in İzmir, while 26 people were hospitalized with injuries, according to Urban Planning Minister Murat Kurum.
Wild animals and cats and dogs died in the fire, but no human fatalities have yet been reported.
Scientists say climate change makes extreme weather events including heatwaves more likely, longer lasting and more intense, increasing the risk of wildfires.
The İzmir fire started on Thursday and was quickly spread to residential areas by winds blowing at 50 kilometers (30 miles) an hour.
Firefighters were dispatched from several towns, while the army and police were also mobilized in the effort.
Five other fires continue to rage in forested areas in other cities in Turkey, including northwestern Bolu and Aydın in the west.
The İzmir fire was the biggest Turkey has seen this summer.
In June a fire that broke out in Mardin in southeastern Turkey claimed the lives of 15 people.