3 people killed as forest fires rage in Turkey

Three people have been killed as two forest fires rage near the southern coast of Turkey, Euronews reports.

Scores more people were hospitalised after suffering burns.

Strong winds fanned the fire near the Mediterranean coastal town of Manavgat, Antalya, yesterday.

Turkish security forces helped move residents of four neighbourhoods out of the path of the fire as firefighters worked to control the blaze. Hundreds of forestry workers, assisted by helicopters, were also working to tackle the flames.

Agriculture and Forestry Minister Bekir Pakdemirli said the fire in the area had largely been contained. However another fire began to spread today in the district of Akseki.

Hospitals in Antalya had been placed on alert while authorities evacuated 18 villages and districts.

READ: Waiting for their dead, Iraqis blame government for hospital fire