Mardin, June 21, 2024 -Devastating wildfires have spread across several villages in southeastern Turkey, resulting in the deaths of at least five people and injuring around fifty residents. The country's Health Minister Fahrettin Koca provided the update on Friday, highlighting the critical situation in the affected areas.

In a statement on social media, Minister Koca revealed that the fires broke out near the southeastern city of Mardin, claiming five lives and leaving 44 others injured. Among the injured, ten individuals are reported to be in critical condition.

Dramatic images shared on social media depicted massive bonfires burning through the night, with large clouds of black smoke billowing into the sky, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Emergency response teams have been mobilized to address the crisis. "Four emergency service teams and 35 ambulances have been dispatched to the scene," Koca stated.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya provided additional details, noting that the fires ignited approximately 30 kilometers south of Diyarbakir late Thursday. Fueled by strong winds, the flames quickly spread to five villages, transforming into a widespread wildfire. Tragically, three individuals in Diyarbakir and two in Mardin lost their lives due to the fast-moving fires.

Authorities continue to battle the blazes and provide medical aid to the injured, while efforts are underway to prevent further spread and contain the damage in the affected regions.