OGM issued a warning: 146 forest fires broke out in the first 8 days of September; the risk remains in Muğla

The General Directorate of Forestry (OGM) announced that 146 forest fires broke out nationwide during the first eight days of September. During the same period, firefighters responded to 260 fires outside forested areas. The agency warned that the onset of fall does not eliminate the risk of fires.

406 Fires in Eight Days

According to data shared by the OGM, a total of 406 fires—146 of which were forest fires—were tackled between September 1 and 8, 2026. The 260 fires that broke out outside forested areas also demonstrate the high level of activity teams maintained in the field.

“Summer is over, but the risk remains”

The agency emphasized that the seasonal transition does not reduce the danger, citing the fires that occurred in Antalya, Muğla, and Adana in recent days. Temperatures along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are forecast to remain above 30 degrees in the coming days. When high temperatures combine with vegetation that has dried out over the long summer, even a single spark can cause vast areas to burn.

What does this mean for Muğla?

Covered in red pine forests, Muğla is one of Turkey’s most fire-prone provinces. Just in recent days, a forest fire that broke out around Menteşe and Ula led to the evacuation of three homes, and field treatment efforts were carried out for animals affected by the fire in the Yaraş region. When the wind picks up, a stubble fire thought to be extinguished or a single cigarette butt tossed onto the road can quickly spiral out of control.

A Call to Citizens

The General Directorate of Forestry (OGM) has urged the public not to light fires in areas near forests, not to discard lit cigarettes in nature, and to exercise the utmost caution during agricultural activities. The statement included the phrase, “The best fire is one that never starts.”

What should you do if you see smoke?

• 177 — Forest Fire Hotline (toll-free, connects directly to forest crews)
• 112 — Emergency Call Center
• When reporting, describe the location as clearly as possible: the nearest village, neighborhood, road, or recognizable structure
• The color and direction of the smoke are important for the crews; specify them if possible
• Do not attempt to extinguish the fire on your own, and do not park in a way that blocks the routes for emergency vehicles

The risk of wildfires persists until the first autumn rains become regular.