Wildfire spreads across 8 hectares in foothills near Almaty

Tengrinews.kz - A large wildfire has broken out in the foothills of the Almaty region, covering an area of approximately 8 hectares (about 80,000 square meters — the size of 11 FIFA football fields), according to local emergency services. The fire is proving difficult to contain due to the challenging terrain.

The blaze was first reported to emergency services via the 112 hotline. It was detected in the Raiymbek rural district of the Karasay district, within the grounds of a gardening cooperative.

“Upon arrival, it was confirmed that dry vegetation was burning in an open mountainous area. The estimated area affected is 7-8 hectares. The steep terrain and lack of access roads are complicating firefighting efforts, which are currently being carried out on foot,” the regional Department of Emergency Situations said.

There are no reports of casualties, injuries, or immediate threats to nearby settlements at this time.

Roughly 70 personnel and 9 firefighting units from the Almaty region and city, local authorities, and forestry services are involved in the operation. The Ministry of Emergency Situations is monitoring the situation, and containment efforts are ongoing.

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