Death toll climbs to 6 in Turkey wildfires

The death toll from wildfires raging in Turkey’s Mediterranean towns has risen to six after two forest workers were killed, the country’s health minister says

ISTANBUL -- The death toll from wildfires raging in Turkey’s Mediterranean towns rose to six Saturday after two forest workers were killed, the country’s health minister said. Fires across Turkey since Wednesday have burned down forests, encroaching on villages and tourist destinations and forcing people to evacuate. The Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Bekir Pakdemirli, said Saturday 88 of 98 fires that broke out amid strong winds and scorching heat have been brought under control. New fires erupted in southern Hatay province where flames jumped to populated areas but appear to have been brought under control. At least five people have died in Manavgat and one died in Marmaris. Both towns are located on the Mediterranean and are tourist destinations.