Wildfire erupts close to popular resort

More than 1,000 firefighters, helped by water-dropping planes and helicopters, have been battling a wildfire that erupted overnight near a popular resort in south-west Turkey.

An official voiced hope that the blaze – one year after the worst wildfires in Turkey’s history – was close to being tamed but urged caution due to the strong prevailing winds.

The fire erupted in the Bordubet region near Marmaris on Turkey’s Aegean coast.

It spread rapidly, fanned by strong winds.

Smoke filled the orange-tinted sky over Bordubet and authorities evacuated dozens of homes near the region as a precaution.

The smoke made its way over to the Greek island of Rhodes – a short ferry ride from Marmaris.

Authorities were investigating the cause of the blaze, including the possibility of arson.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan inspected the area by helicopter, while Vahit Kirisci, the agriculture and forestry minister, said the fire had been “largely” contained.

He added, however, that he was making his remarks with “some caution”.

“Of course, it is possible that it may jump from one place to another due to the wind,” he said.

Close to 1,600 personnel were involved in efforts to bring the fire under control, including teams brought in from neighbouring provinces.

Twenty helicopters and 14 planes were deployed.

Last summer, blazes fed by strong winds and scorching temperatures tore through forests in Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean regions, including Marmaris.

At least eight people and countless animals were killed.