Devastating wildfires have erupted in northwestern Turkey, just outside Bursa—the country’s fourth-largest city—forcing hundreds of residents to flee their homes. The fires spread rapidly through the forested mountains surrounding the city, casting an ominous red glow across the night sky.
Bursa is the latest region to face destructive blazes this summer, joining parts of Greece and Cyprus that are also grappling with intense wildfires driven by soaring temperatures and dry conditions.
According to local authorities, more than 1,760 people were evacuated from northeastern villages around Bursa, as over 1,100 firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the inferno. The main highway connecting Bursa to Ankara, the capital, was shut down due to nearby forest fires.
Orhan Saribal, an opposition MP for the region, described the apocalyptic scene as catastrophic.
Since late June, Turkey has been battling dozens of wildfires daily. Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yamukli reported that fire crews responded to 76 separate outbreaks across the country just yesterday. The blazes are fueled by extreme heat, arid conditions, and strong winds.
The Turkish Meteorology Department confirmed that the country hit a record high of 50.5°C (122.9°F) in Sirnak province, located in the southeast, on Friday. That same day, fires swept through homes and resorts in Cyprus, affecting areas popular with tourists.
In response, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel guidance, warning of ongoing wildfires, especially in the Paphos and Limassol districts in southern Cyprus. Authorities cautioned that essential services like electricity and water could be disrupted in fire-affected zones. However, airports in Paphos and Larnaca remain fully operational.
Travelers planning to visit potentially impacted areas are urged to check with their tour operators or accommodation providers in advance and ensure they have suitable travel insurance. The FCDO advised those in or near wildfire zones to remain vigilant and follow instructions from emergency services. In case of immediate danger, people in Cyprus should dial 112. British travelers were also encouraged to reach out to airlines or travel companies for support if their plans are affected.
Meanwhile, in Greece, British tourists were warned as new wildfires broke out near Athens amid a relentless 44°C heatwave. After record highs were recorded in the capital earlier in the week, flames swept through the northern suburb of Kryoneri. Residents received multiple emergency alerts urging them to evacuate, while dramatic images captured homes engulfed in flames.
