Severe forest fires spread across southern Turkey

Multiple forest fires broke out across Turkey on July 29, 2026, primarily affecting tourist regions in the southern provinces of Muğla and Antalya. Driven by intense winds, high temperatures, and prolonged drought, the fires have necessitated the evacuation of several residential areas. In the Seydikemer district of Muğla, authorities have deployed significant resources, including five airplanes, 18 helicopters, over 90 fire engines and heavy machinery, and a massive firefighting force comprising over 1,000 personnel, including professional firefighters, volunteers, and civil protection staff.

The fires have caused major infrastructure disruptions, including the closure of the highway connecting Antalya to the resort town of Fethiye due to thick smoke. Local officials have also restricted access to nearby archaeological sites. The Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is actively managing the crisis, reporting that teams are working tirelessly to gain control over the blazes. While containment efforts are underway, officials warn that current extreme weather conditions continue to trigger dangerous flare-ups, making the situation highly unstable as responders continue to battle the elements.