Tekirdağ, Turkey – July 16, 2025 – RKS News
A large-scale wildfire broke out Tuesday afternoon in a forested area near Şarköy, located in the Tekirdağ province of northwestern Turkey, prompting emergency evacuations and a major firefighting operation.
The blaze quickly spread across the Marmara region, with at least two active fire fronts reported in Çanakkale, raising alarm among local authorities and residents.
In response to the escalating threat, seven villages in the danger zone have been evacuated as a precaution. So far, four individuals have been hospitalized for respiratory issues caused by heavy smoke inhalation.
Turkey’s firefighting teams have mobilized 21 aerial units, including helicopters and firefighting planes, to contain the flames. However, their efforts are being hampered by strong winds, which are rapidly fanning the fire across dry vegetation and difficult terrain.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. One of the leading hypotheses suggests that a bird may have struck high-voltage power lines, triggering sparks that ignited the surrounding dry landscape.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the affected areas and to remain alert as firefighting efforts continue throughout the night.
