Wildfire kills 10 firefighters and volunteers in Turkey’s Eskisehir province

July 24, 2025 – 9:22 PM

A fast-moving wildfire claimed the lives of 10 people in northwestern Turkey on Wednesday, after a sudden wind shift trapped emergency teams inside the blaze. The victims were firefighters and volunteers who were working to contain the fire in Eskisehir province. Officials warn the country is facing an especially dangerous wildfire season, fueled by soaring temperatures and unpredictable winds.

What happened in Eskisehir

The fire broke out in a forested region of Eskisehir, rapidly growing out of control. According to Turkey’s Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli, the victims included five state forestry workers and five volunteers from AKUT, a well-known Turkish search and rescue organization.

Yumakli said the tragedy occurred when strong winds suddenly reversed direction, encircling the crews with flames before they had time to retreat.

“It was a tragic moment,” he said. “Our teams were surrounded in seconds.”

At least 14 others were hospitalized with burns and smoke inhalation. As of late Wednesday, firefighting teams were still struggling to contain the blaze.

A deadly season worsens

With this latest disaster, the death toll from Turkey’s 2025 wildfire season has now risen to 13. Earlier in July, an elderly man and two forestry workers were killed in another fire near Odemis in Izmir province.

This week’s wildfire is part of a wider emergency, with at least seven fires currently active across the country.

Wind, heat, and dry conditions fueling fires

Turkey has been facing a surge in wildfires since late June, driven by some of the hottest and driest summer conditions in recent history.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service has warned of “extraordinary temperatures” and shifting winds that are complicating firefighting efforts.

“Once again, I call on all 86 million citizens to be vigilant,” said Minister Yumakli. “These conditions demand extreme caution.”

Forecasts show rising temperatures and gusty winds continuing through the weekend, increasing the risk of further outbreaks.

National mourning and investigation

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan offered condolences to the families of those killed and praised their bravery.

“These heroes lost their lives trying to protect our forests,” Erdoğan said. “Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

An investigation into the cause of the Eskisehir fire is underway. Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç confirmed that two prosecutors have been appointed to examine whether arson or negligence may have played a role.

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that high heat and dry vegetation alone sparked the blaze.

A growing wildfire threat

Turkey, like many other countries, has seen an alarming rise in severe wildfires, driven by a changing climate. Forests have become more flammable due to higher temperatures, longer dry seasons, and increasingly erratic wind patterns.

Volunteer responders like AKUT play a vital role in supporting state efforts, but as this tragedy shows, they face growing risks on the front lines.

Experts say more investment in fire prevention, early detection, and protective gear is urgently needed as Turkey adjusts to its new wildfire reality.

Final thoughts

This latest loss underscores the need for greater preparedness, community awareness, and climate resilience. As conditions worsen, authorities are urging the public to avoid fire-prone activities and to report any signs of smoke immediately.

The country continues to grieve the 10 lives lost in Eskisehir — a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by those who defend lives, homes, and forests under increasingly extreme conditions.

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Source: AP News – Wildfire kills 10 firefighters and rescue workers in Turkey