Western Turkey experiences another forest blaze, causing a temporary airport shutdown.
Emergency services are battling a forest fire that broke out in the western Turkish province of Canakkale on Saturday, August 16, 2025. The fire, which started near the Gelibolu (Gallipoli) district, has spread rapidly due to strong winds, threatening residential areas and prompting the evacuation of five villages and around 250 people.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, but experts attribute the increasing extremes in weather to climate change. The western part of Turkey has been experiencing extreme heat and drought, creating an environment conducive to forest fires.
To contain the blaze, authorities have mobilized extensive firefighting resources. 12 airplanes and 12 helicopters are being used for aerial firefighting, along with 94 fire trucks, six municipal fire engines, three bulldozers, and about 560 personnel on the ground. The operation is coordinated by the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), Regional Forestry Directorate, gendarmerie, police, and related agencies.
Despite these efforts, the fire continues to spread near residential areas, and firefighting work remains ongoing. Evacuation measures were promptly enacted due to the fire's proximity to villages and the risk posed by high winds. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate displaced residents. Local authorities also took precautions such as closing nearby sea routes, like the Dardanelles Strait, to protect maritime traffic and support firefighting activities.
In addition to the main fire, another blaze is being fought in a separate location within Canakkale. A storm warning has been issued for four western provinces, including Canakkale, with strong north and northeast winds of up to 80 km/h expected until Tuesday.
While heat alone does not cause fires, high temperatures, drought, low humidity, and wind can increase the risk of forest fires. The Canakkale airport has been closed to civilian air traffic until evening, but it remains open for emergency services and state officials. Shipping through the Dardanelles Strait may have been restricted due to heavy smoke, but this has not been confirmed.
As of mid-August 2025, firefighting efforts are actively continuing to control the wildfire. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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