Stubble fire spreads to forest in Turkey, controlled in 3 hours

A stubble fire that ignited in a field in Malkara's rural Esendik neighborhood quickly spread to the Esendik Forest, fueled by wind. The blaze, which began around 5 p.m., prompted an immediate response from the Forest Management Directorate, Tekirdağ Metropolitan Municipality fire crews, and water tankers. Heavy machinery was also deployed to aid in the containment efforts.

Firefighting operations received support from the air, with one aircraft and two helicopters assisting ground crews. After approximately three hours of coordinated intervention from both land and air, the flames were brought under control. The fire impacted a significant area, damaging an estimated 50 decares (approximately 12.3 acres) of agricultural land and an equal area of forest.

While cooling operations are ongoing in the affected region, authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. The extent of the damage highlights the rapid spread of wildfires in dry conditions and the critical importance of swift emergency response.