The Federal Tourism Agency has recommended that Russians vacationing in Antalya, Turkey stay in hotels due to the forest fires.
Rosturizm is in contact with the Russian Consulate General in Antalya and tour operators. We are monitoring the situation, there have not been any complaints from tourists yet. We recommend that all tourists to the Antalya region do not leave the territory of the hotels and follow the recommendations of the local authorities & # 39; & # 39 ;, & mdash; said in the department.
On Wednesday, the Russian Consulate General reported that due to the fires raging in the resort area, tour operators halted all tours for vacationers.
Where did the forest fires start?
Large forest fires have broken out in three districts of Antalya province in southern Turkey & mdash; in Side, Sorgun and Manavgat. The most serious situation is in the Manavgat region, 70 km from Antalya & mdash; there, fire has already destroyed farmland, domestic animals and damaged houses. In the town of Manavgat, 76 km from Antalya and 5 km from Side, four residential areas were evacuated due to a fire.
Forest parks and land farms adjacent to the city are covered. The city center and residential areas are partially affected.
What caused the fire?
The fire may have occurred due to the extreme heat. The air temperature in the area exceeds 40 degrees. According to the Turkish Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the fire spread quickly due to the wind.
Are there any fire hazards for tourist sites?
According to local authorities, the fires pose no danger to tourist sites. According to Governor of Manavgat District Mustafa Yigit , the fires have spread far from major tourist sites and routes, so there is no risk to travelers.
In addition, most of the fires were extinguished. Turkey's ground and air forces were thrown into it. Two planes, 15 helicopters, six bulldozers and 106 fire trucks are helping to put out the fires.
Are there any casualties?
According to Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Bekir Pakdemirli , 53 people were injured as a result of the fire. None of the Russian tourists vacationing at nearby resorts have asked for help, NTV reports.