Fierce wildfires have engulfed large areas of western Türkiye, with the provinces of İzmir and Bilecik suffering widespread destruction.

Emergency crews, supported by aircraft and helicopters, are battling to contain the blazes as strong winds continue to fan the flames.

In İzmir’s popular coastal district of Çeşme, residents of the town of Ildir took matters into their own hands, using water hoses to extinguish fire hotspots threatening their homes. The fires, which began in nearby farmlands, quickly spread to surrounding bushes and forests. Local authorities evacuated three residential areas as a precaution.

According to Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), at least 110 residential buildings in İzmir have been severely damaged or completely destroyed.

Meanwhile, in Bilecik province, another wildfire caused significant destruction, damaging 121 buildings including homes, shops, and agricultural structures. Officials have confirmed that over 1,000 animals have perished across both provinces, underlining the catastrophic impact on rural communities and livestock.

Hundreds of wildfires have erupted across Türkiye in recent days due to dry conditions and high temperatures. While many have been brought under control, efforts are ongoing in affected regions to fully contain the remaining blazes.

Authorities are urging residents to comply with evacuation orders and remain alert as firefighting operations continue. Damage assessments are still underway as the nation comes to terms with the scale of the disaster. (ILKHA)