fire in Izmir. Photo: AA/ABACA / Abaca Press
A large-scale forest fire engulfed residential areas of Izmir, Turkey’s third largest city, on Friday evening, AFP reported.
The fire, which started on Thursday evening, quickly spread to the central districts of Karsiak and Bayrakli due to strong winds reaching speeds of 50 km/h. Authorities ordered the evacuation of three blocks and reported damage to 16 buildings. Fortunately, there are no victims.
According to local media reports, thick smoke blanketed the entire city, turning the sky into disturbing shades of orange and gray. Due to strong winds, the intervention of water helicopters at night was not possible.
In addition, animal rights activists were forced to evacuate a shelter for stray dogs to protect the animals. Firefighters from several Turkish cities, as well as the army and police, were mobilized to fight the flames.
