UPDATE - Forest fire in western Turkey contained

Official says blaze in Balikesir likely started by picnickers

INCLUDES SIZE OF FIRE-DAMAGED AREA

By Serhat Bugra Senkokcu

BALIKESIR, Turkey (AA) – A forest fire in western Turkey thought to have been caused by picnickers was brought under control Monday, having blazed through the night, an official said.

Flames previously destroyed 20 hectares (49 acres) of pine forest in the Mount Ida national park in Balikesir province before being contained by firefighters.

“According to a preliminary determination, the blaze stems from a picnic fire,” Metin Kirci, head of the Balikesir Forest Directorate, said.

Kirci stated that 40 hectares (98 acres) had been damaged. "We will immediately plant trees on the burned area ", he added.

Around 200 firefighters, seven firefighting helicopters and 16 fire engines tackled the fire near Edremit.

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