Turkey Evacuates Over 50,000 Amid Wildfires in Izmir With Two Dead, Flights Suspended, Six of Nine Fires Contained

Turkey has been grappling with widespread wildfires primarily in the western province of Izmir since late June 2025. The fires, fueled by strong winds reaching up to 30 miles per hour and record-breaking temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), have forced the evacuation of more than 50,000 people, with approximately 42,000 evacuated from Izmir alone. The wildfires have affected multiple provinces including Izmir, Hatay, and Bilecik, leading to the evacuation of over 50,000 residents in total. The fires have damaged around 200 homes and disrupted flight operations at Izmir airport, which was temporarily shut down.

Firefighting efforts have been ongoing for over a week, involving both air and land operations. Authorities have contained six out of nine wildfires in Izmir province, though the blazes continue to pose challenges due to adverse weather conditions. The Turkish Disaster Management Authority (AFAD) has been coordinating the response, and emergency funds have been allocated to assist affected areas. Tragically, the wildfires have resulted in at least two fatalities. Officials have indicated that faulty electrical cables may have contributed to the ignition of some fires. The situation remains critical as firefighters work to fully control the remaining fires amid continued high temperatures and strong winds.