Türkiye wildfire kills 10 firefighters and rescue crew
At least 14 other rescuers and forestry workers were hospitalised for injuries as the wildfire raged through a forested area of Eskisehir province, Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said.
He said the wind suddenly changed direction, causing the flames to shift rapidly and surround the forest workers. It was not immediately clear what caused the fire.
Mr Yumakli said firefighters were currently battling seven wildfires in the country, including the one in Eskisehir, adding that extreme heat and volatile wind conditions also were expected in Türkiye on Thursday, local time.
"Starting tomorrow, we are facing extraordinary temperatures and extreme wind shifts. Once again, I call on all 86 million citizens to be vigilant and exercise extra caution," Mr Yumakli said.
Two prosecutors were assigned to investigate the incident, the country's justice minister said.
Türkiye has been battling wildfires since June 26.
The deaths bring this year's wildfire death toll in the country to 13, amid strong winds, high temperatures, and dry conditions.
An elderly man and two forestry workers were killed in a wildfire that raged near the town of Odemis, in Izmir province, earlier this month.
In a message of condolence to the families, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the victims had fought "to protect our forests at cost of their lives".
AP
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