After four days of relentless efforts, authorities announced that the wildfires ravaging the forests around Izmir, Türkiye's third most-populous city, have been largely brought under control.

Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumaklı confirmed on Sunday that while efforts to extinguish hotspots are ongoing, the flames are now mostly contained in a single location.

"There is no risk in the section overlooking the city. Firefighters have trapped the fire in a valley. Thank God, this fire in the Yamanlar area of Izmir is now under control," Minister Yumaklı informed reporters.

Among the new fires that erupted on Saturday in Izmir province, one threatening the seaside resort of Çeşme was swiftly brought under control. The prompt evacuation of residents played a crucial role in preventing injuries, the minister added.

Flames continue to burn in steep valleys approximately 20 kilometers south of Izmir, though at a reduced pace, according to Yumaklı.

Urban Planning Minister Murat Kurum reported that at least 43 buildings were damaged in Izmir, and 26 people were hospitalized with injuries related to the blaze. While no human casualties have been reported, the fire claimed the lives of various wild animals, as well as cats and dogs.

The Izmir fire, which began on Thursday, was exacerbated by winds blowing at 50 kilometers per hour, quickly spreading to residential areas. Firefighters from several towns, alongside army and police forces, were mobilized to combat the blaze.

Five other fires continue to rage in forest areas across Türkiye, including in the cities of Bolu and Aydın. The Izmir fire is the largest Türkiye has experienced this summer. In June, a fire in Mardin, southeastern Türkiye, resulted in the loss of 15 lives.

Scientists have pointed to climate change as a significant factor in the increased frequency, duration, and intensity of extreme weather events like heatwaves, which heighten the risk of wildfires. (ILKHA)