Stubble Fire in Bursa Extinguished Before Reaching Forest

A stubble fire erupted in a field in Gemlik, Bursa, on July 16, 2026, prompting a swift response from emergency services. The fire, which started around 1:30 PM, threatened to spread to a nearby forest, but a coordinated effort by forest and fire departments, supported by villagers, managed to contain it before it reached the wooded area.

Multiple resources were deployed to combat the blaze, including three firefighting helicopters, six fire engines, two water tankers, and approximately 40 forest personnel. Villagers also contributed to the firefighting efforts, providing additional water tankers. The combined aerial and ground operations were crucial in bringing the fire under control.

Gemlik Forest Management Director Remzi Artar emphasized the danger of even minor negligence during the hot summer months, stating that "the slightest negligence can cause major fires." He urged citizens to exercise maximum caution in both agricultural areas and forests. Artar assured the public that forest teams are actively patrolling critical areas, and measures are being coordinated with relevant institutions to prevent future incidents. Cooling operations are ongoing at the site.