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Firefighters are battling a large forest blaze in the western district of Ayvacik, Türkiye, as strong winds drive flames toward residential areas and historical sites.
The fire erupted near the village of Naldoken on Sunday and quickly spread to nearby Tuzla, Tasagil, and Camkoy due to high winds. Ground crews from the Regional Directorate of Forestry worked overnight to contain the fire, and two helicopters resumed aerial operations at first light.
Authorities ordered the evacuation of Naldoken, Tuzla, Tasagil, and Camkoy as a precaution. Residents later returned as the immediate threat subsided.
Drone footage from Tuzla showed scorched forests surrounding homes and infrastructure, including a geothermal power plant and the historic Hudavendigar Mosque, currently under restoration. Flames reached the mosque’s courtyard, causing visible damage to both the building and adjacent gravesites.
Several homes, animal shelters, and barns were affected in Naldoken, with multiple livestock reportedly perished in the blaze.
Officials warned that ongoing wind conditions could reignite hotspots and hinder containment efforts.
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