MUĞLA, Türkiye, July 30 (AVA) – A fast-moving wildfire that broke out in the resort district of Fethiye in southwestern Türkiye spread to the tourist area of Yeşilüzümlü on Thursday, raising concerns for residents, including a large community of British expatriates living in the area. Firefighting crews continued battling the blaze from both the air and the ground as shifting winds repeatedly changed the fire's direction, forcing emergency teams to respond simultaneously at multiple locations.
Local residents who spoke to the European News Agency (AVA) described the situation as "a war zone" as flames advanced toward residential areas.
According to eyewitnesses, firefighters began pumping water from the swimming pools of private villas in Yeşilüzümlü after the wildfire could not be fully contained. The fire reached the area in front of Yeşilüzümlü Borsa School, where emergency crews managed to prevent the flames from spreading to the building.
Both sides of the main road at the entrance to Yeşilüzümlü were affected by the fire, and several roads were closed to traffic. Witnesses reported that five to six helicopters were continuously making water-dropping sorties throughout the day.
Electricity has been cut since the morning as a precautionary measure, while internet service has been intermittent due to the ongoing emergency.
Authorities have strengthened safety measures as the firefighting operation continues.
The Gendarmerie closed the Üzümlü–Fethiye road to civilian traffic, allowing access only to emergency services and accredited media vehicles. Local villagers have been using tractors to transport water and firefighting equipment to support crews on the front lines. Fethiye Mayor Alim Karaca has also been coordinating operations at the scene.
Witnesses said the number of firefighting helicopters operating over the area had increased to around ten as authorities intensified aerial efforts.
Officials said firefighters continue to work around the clock to bring the wildfire under control and urged the public to follow official warnings and stay away from high-risk areas.
