Turkey travel chaos as airport shuts down due to raging wildfires ripping through hols hotspot with hundreds evacuated
The terrifying inferno ripped through the tourist resort of Foça, İzmir, before it was fanned by strong winds and tore through neighbourhoods.
8
Smoke and flame rise as firefighters continue to extinguish the wildfire in Aliaga district of Izmir
Credit: Getty
8
Flames rise from forest area after a wildfire broke out in Seferihisar district
Credit: Getty
8
Hundreds were evacuated from their homes
Credit: Getty
8
The extinguishing operation involved firefighter on land and in air
Credit: Getty
Chilling images showed the extent of the fires which ravaged local communities and engulfed
Planes were seen dumping large supplies of water over fiery infernos in order to combat the blazes.
And local residents watched in horror as their
homes
were torched up and
Aftermath photos showed scorched
cars
and buildings while firefighters worked desperately to fight the
READ MORE WORLD NEWS
Flights have now been suspended at İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport following the raging wildfires.
Ongoing extinguishing efforts prevented jets from taking off or landing at the airport as of 4pm local time.
Flights scheduled to land at İzmir were reportedly diverted amid the travel mayhem.
And hundreds have been left stranded following the major disruption.
Most read in The US Sun
Brave firefighters spent 22 gruelling hours fighting the vicious blaze across İzmir.
The lengthy operation reportedly involved 625 personnel, six helicopters, 46 fire engines, 9 bulldozers, and 13 water supply vehicles.
Holiday warning as wildfire is raging at Greek island forcing evacuations
Hundreds were evacuated form their houses - with 550 residents forced out of some 175
homes
in Ilıpınar, Foça.
Four firefighters were also affected by smoke poisoning, two of whom were hospitalised.
The exact cause of the fire is currently unknown.
But preliminary findings suggest the inferno may have been caused by a high-voltage power line.
The governor of the province, Süleyman Elban, cautioned the population to exercise extreme caution in the
next
few days.
He said low humidity and high temperatures would aggravate the risk of more fires.
8
Homes were burned to cinders
Credit: Getty
8
Cars were torched up in the fires
Credit: Getty
The governor said: "We expect the
next
four or five days to be very hot, with strong winds and low humidity. These conditions are perfect for a fire.
"Everyone's life is at stake. We must all be extremely cautious."
Wildfires were also reported in Sakarya, Bilecik, and Manisa this week.
Environment Minister Murat Kurum said in Bilecik, 23 houses and 47 units in 3 villages were destroyed in the forest fires, whilst 41 houses and 25 barns and warehouses were severely damaged.
Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı, said: "Nine major fires broke out in İzmir, Denizli, Aydın and Manisa.
"The fire in Manisa started again due to wind.
"Four villages and two neighbourhoods were evacuated due to the fire."
8
Jets deployed water supplies over blazing regions
Credit: Getty
8
The fire grounded multiple flights and diverted several
Credit: Getty
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Irish Sun
10 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
I love this fairytale-esque UK beach town that isn't actually on the sea – and tourists always forget about it
Read on to find out about the best spots to explore in the town HIDDEN GEM I love this fairytale-esque UK beach town that isn't actually on the sea – and tourists always forget about it TUCKED away from Devon's coastline is one of the county's most beautiful towns, with wonky old buildings, quaint streets and fortified castles. Forget the tourists, it's even a day trip for the locals - as a born and bred Devonian, a day out in Dartmouth was always a treat for me, despite only living 30 minutes from the waterfront town. 6 Dartmouth oozes warm, fairytale charm, with a warren of winding lanes and cobbled streets that are lined with multi-coloured higgledy-piggledy cottages Credit: Getty 6 Dartmouth is a waterfront town sitting on the banks of the River Dart Credit: Getty Win one of 8 incredible holidays to the Caribbean, Mexico and Greece by voting in The Sun's Travel Awards - enter to win here But despite its beauty and charm, Dartmouth is often overlooked by neighbouring seaside towns and resorts like Torquay or Salcombe each summer. That's a mistake, it's just as good and considerably quieter in peak season, and even though the town isn't technically on the sea it still has its own beach. The town oozes warm, fairytale charm - it's picture perfect, with no graffiti and a warren of winding lanes and cobbled streets, lined with multi-coloured higgledy-piggledy cottages. Sat on the banks of the River Dart, its estuary position makes it a great spot for boat trips, such as The Fizz Boat that cruises on the river for 90 minutes with fizz constantly flowing for guests. And you can still take a bucket and spade to either Castle Cove or Sugary Cove. Castle Cove is a small sand and shingle beach that can only be accessed at low tide. The spot boasts stunning views of Dartmouth Castle, that towers above the beach and where visitors can also find the Dartmouth Castle Tea Rooms for a tapas board, locally-caught crab sandwich or traditional Devonshire cream tea. Over at Sugary Cove - a favoured spot among locals - the shingle beach is edged by rugged cliffs and thick greenery. You have to head down some pretty steep steps to reach the shoreline, which is why it usually uncrowded and the ideal place to spot some of the local wildlife such as seals and if you're lucky, dolphins. Across the town there are number of historic spots to explore, including Dartmouth Castle, which has stood guarding the town for over 600 years. The Trelawney Hotel in Torquay, Devon is among the chepeates places to stay in the UK, as rated by Tripadvisor Inside, for £10 visitors can find a Gun Tower and winding passages that give a glimpse at what life was like in the castle during the Hundred Years War, where it was used to protect the entrance to the River Dart from French invasion. The castle links to the town's naval history as well, which remains crucial to the destination today. At the other end of Dartmouth is the Britannia Royal Naval College where Royal Navy officers are still trained. Visitors can opt to go on a two-hour guided tour with a resident naval officer to learn about its 150-year history including a visit to the elegant chapel and even the Gun Room. The destination was recently awarded a TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice Award 2025, with one visitor recently commenting that it is "a must see for anyone visiting Dartmouth". Tours of the only remaining Naval College in the entire country can be booked online and cost £20 per adult and £12.50 per child. In the town centre itself, I have fond memories of the many amazing markets including Dartmouth Old Market, which takes place each Friday with local produce and independent makers. 6 Whilst it technically does not sit on the sea and instead on an estuary, it still has a couple of coves Credit: Getty The market was originally built as a 'pannier' market in 1828 - a type of indoor market originating in Devon and involved 'panniers', or baskets, to transport goods such as meats and cheeses. Every second Saturday of the month there is also the Dartmouth Good Food and Artisan Market, selling specialist produce like Dartmoor honey and locally-baked sourdough bread. Away from the markets, make sure to head to the town's independent shops and galleries, especially on Duke Street, famous for the Butterwalk building that has a sloping appearance and intricate black and white facade. It is opposite this building that you will find one of the most popular dining spots in the town - Embankment Bistro. The bistro is ideally located with views of the harbour on one side and the estuary on the other and sells some rather fancy fish and chips for £19 a portion. Though, if you want a cheaper option and happen to be in the town on a Tuesday, head slightly further along the promenade and you will reach a personal favourite of mine called Rockfish, where you can grab a portion of fish and chips for 50 per cent off. For a sweet treat, you will find numerous ice cream spots and places to grab a traditional Devonshire jam and cream scone, but one of the best is Dudley's - a cafe that serves cream teas along the promenade. The bistro and Rockfish are also conveniently located next to where visitors can catch the passenger ferry across to Kingswear, a picturesque village with pastel houses, a steam railway and Agatha Christie's holiday home, Greenway House. 6 And in the town itself there is a lot of history including fortified castles Credit: Alamy One of the best free things to do in the town - especially with kids - is to walk along the water's edge. The water is always crystal clear and many times I would catch glimpse of silver fish skirting about close to the wall. As you walk along away from the harbour, you will reach English Heritage's Tudor fort called Bayard's Cove Fort, built between 1522 and 1536. The fort used to house many heavy guns to protect the harbour from attack, but today stands as a ruin, free to visit. The thick stone walls and 11 gunports looking out over the water always provided the perfect spot for my imagination to run wild as a child. Between August 23 and 30, the 180th Dartmouth Royal Regatta takes place with sailing and rowing races, a 'Family Fun' weekend with a dog show and live music, a fire walk across burning coals and a fireworks display. Also on August 30, visitors can catch a glimpse of the Waverly - the world's last seagoing paddle steamer. Eventgoers can explore the 1946 steamer, including visiting the engine room and watching the paddles twist and turn through portholes, or take afternoon tea in the Dining Saloon. 6 The shops feature independent sellers and exciting galleries Credit: Alamy If you fancy staying in the town, there are plenty for self-catered holiday cottages, such as Dart Valley Cottages that offer a range of water view homes. There are a few ways of reaching Dartmouth. You could hop on the train to Kingswear, before catching a passenger ferry for £5 return across the estuary to Dartmouth. Or if you are driving, you can head directly into the town or catch the car ferry from Kingswear for £14 return, which tends to be quicker. And if you do opt to stay in the town, but wish to explore the surrounding area, 10 minutes down the road is Blackpool Sands - an expansive Blue Flag beach on the South West Coastal Path. These are also the 10 stunning UK beaches nearby that star in a new Hollywood movie – from little-known coves to underground tunnels. Plus, one woman who lives in a much-loved Devon seaside resort has shared the hidden gem beaches and pubs that few people know about.
The Irish Sun
14 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
The dangerous reason you should never wear leggings or jeans on a flight
Read on to find out what you should wear on a flight instead TAKE OFF The dangerous reason you should never wear leggings or jeans on a flight EXPERTS have warned of the two items you should never wear on a flight - even if it means sacrificing comfort. Despite being a popular item of clothing, leggings are said to be one of the most dangerous items you could be wearing during an emergency onboard your flight. 4 Brits shouldn't wear certain clothes when flying, including leggings Credit: Getty Win one of 8 incredible holidays to the Caribbean, Mexico and Greece by voting in The Sun's Travel Awards - enter to win here Author Christine Negroni, whose book delves into the most mysterious air disasters, shared with Sun Travel that when it comes to fires onboard a flight, leggings could leave you with terrible scars. She said: "Everyone is wearing yoga pants on planes now, but I avoid all artificial fibres because they are more likely to burn and stick to you if there is a fire. "I'd advise wearing cotton clothes or anything made of natural fibres." Read more on travel tips HOLS HACK My little-known tricks for cheap tickets that top UK attractions DON'T advertise While the staple wardrobe item might be the most comfortable choice, leggings are tight-fitting, which can restrict blood flow as well. For the same reason, this rules out jeans, says Dr. Hugh Pabarue. The vein specialist at Metro Vein Centers told the Huffington Post: "Wearing leggings and other restrictive garments such as skinny jeans that are too tight reduces blood's ability to flow into and out of the legs." And when this is combined with sitting for long periods of time, blood can pool in the legs, increasing the chances of thrombosis - a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein of the leg. Fashion items to avoid don't just stop at leggings and jeans – flipflops are also a no no. Former cabin crew member Tony Kuna commented on Quora: "During an emergency, all sorts of debris and unpleasant ground surfaces will block your way towards the exit, as well as outside the aircraft." The Sun's Travel Editor Lisa Minot shares her top tips when flying "If your feet [aren't] properly covered, you'll have a hard time making your way to safety." And this is why Christine also says passengers shouldn't take off their shoes when flying - no matter how tempting. She said: "The riskiest time on a flight is during landing and I think it should be a rule to have shoes on during this time. "If you escape an aircraft, the floor could be very hot or cold, it might be covered in oil or on fire, or in a cornfield – you won't want to be barefoot." Whilst not a clothing item per say, travellers should make sure to not wear headphones during take-off and landing either as you need to know if the flight attendants are saying something important. It also isn't great news for contact lens users, as according to London Vision Clinic, plane cabins are an "inhospitable environment" for lenses. 4 Leggings have synthetic fibres that can stick to your skin in a fire Credit: Getty London Vision Clinic states on its website: "With the average humidity on planes coming in as low as 20 per cent, our skin and eyes can dry out pretty quickly. "Combine this with the moisture-sapping effects of contact lenses, and you can have a real recipe for disaster on your hands. "You can expect to experience itchy, irritated eyes and even distorted vision as your peepers dry out!" So perhaps, just opt for your glasses instead. So, what is the ultimate outfit to wear on a flight? Rather than wearing leggings or jeans, passengers should opt for drawstring trousers, according to Conde Nast Traveller. Loose trousers prevent a waistband cutting into you and causing blood flow issues. And following Christine's advice, make sure to opt for a pair with natural fibres to help prevent serious burns if there is a fire. 4 Jeans are also not a great choice for a flight, as they are tight fitting Credit: Getty Dr. Peter J. Pappas, a vascular surgeon with the Center for Vein Restoration, also told the that passengers should opt for medical-grade compression stockings, which can help with preventing swelling and pain in calf muscles. Regarding footwear, Christine advises to opt for trainers over high heels as well. For kids, make sure they have layers as it can often get cold in the cabin, says blog Travelled So Far. Comfortable trousers are also key for little ones - especially if you want them to sleep on the flight. Just make sure to steer clear of synthetic fibres and leggings for their outfit choices as well. A flight attendant has also revealed the row you should always book if you want it to yourself… but it comes with a downside. Plus, there is an 'emergency pants' rule that flight attendants always follow on holiday.
The Irish Sun
15 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
The pretty Cotswolds village named one of the best in the UK with riverfront cottages and no new buildings in 120 years
And one local reveals her Cotswolds hidden gems OLD TIMEY The pretty Cotswolds village named one of the best in the UK with riverfront cottages and no new buildings in 120 years A SMALL lesser visited village in the Cotswolds has been named one of the best places in the UK. Upper Slaughter is often overlooked, being near the famous Bourton-on-the-Water. 5 Upper Slaughter has been named one of the UK's best villages Credit: Robert Harding World Imagery - Getty 5 It is home to fewer than 200 locals Advertisement 5 It is home to just one hotel dating back to the 1600s It is also less popular than the similarly named Lower Slaughter, it's sister village nearby. However, they were both named by a recent survey conducted by Which? looking at the UK's best towns and villages. Just making the top 20, they received a full five stars for being attractive. Advertisement While they ranked low for shopping and attractions - not having any of either - they still make for a great day trip option. Upper Slaughter is said to be like going back in time, with no new buildings in nearly 120 years. The last time any major renovation work was done was in 1906, to the main village square. It is one of the Thankful Villages in the UK, which means they lost no men during World War I. Advertisement However, they also didn't lose any men in World War II, so is also dubbed a Double Thankful Village (and one of just 14 in the UK). Of course, this is likely to be due to the small population number, with fewer than 200 locals. In the summer, you will also spot the locals playing in the The River Eye which runs through the village. Visit the idilic wine making centre of the Cotswolds 5 The Slaughters Manor House only opens a few times a year The village also sits on the Warden's Way, a popular hiking route that runs for five miles. Advertisement It's main attraction is St Peter's Church which dates back to the 12th century, and has a war memorial in the form of a stained glass window. There is also the Upper Slaughter Manor, dating back to 1086 after being mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086. It fell into disrepair until being restored in the 19th century, and is now a private home. It does open to the public a few times a year during the summer as part of the Historic Houses Association although sadly doesn't have any upcoming dates. The village has just one hotel, the Lords of the Manor, which was once part of a larger estate that included the Upper Slaughter Manor. Advertisement The lesser-visited Cotswolds spots according to a local The Sun's Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey grew up in the Cotswolds - here are her favourite, overlooked spots. The village of Burford is dubbed the Gateway to the Cotswolds, so you'd be forgiven for thinking it might be a bit boring. There is the Burford Sweet Shop where I'd often fill a brown paper bag with, as well as another Hunter's cafe selling the best and biggest brownies you'll ever see. And at the bottom was where we would take our crusts from sandwiches we couldn't finish from lunch, throwing them over the river bridge to the eager ducks. My hometown was Witney, which I have often written about before. It's not as quaint as it's surrounding villages - the market town is much more functional than pretty with the majority of shops being chain restaurants and high street brands. It's still got an element of the Cotswolds beauty, having just over 1,400 locals. Dating back to 1649, it was turned into a hotel in the 1960s. Inside are 25 rooms as well as a Good Food Guide listed restaurant. The gardens also open to the public a few times a year, with the next opening date on September 17. Otherwise if you fancy a trip to the pub, you'll have to head to Lower Slaughter, to find The Slaughters Country Inn. To get to Upper Slaughter, the nearest train station is Kingham which is around 20 minutes away by car. Advertisement Hourly trains run to and from London Paddington, taking around 1hr20. Here is another Cotswolds village that is rarely visited, despite being just as beautiful. And there is one town dubbed the 'Queen of the Cotswolds'.
