Kazakhstan battles wildfires as drones join firefighting efforts PHOTO

Twenty-two wildfires and other natural fires were reported across Kazakhstan over the past 24 hours, 17 of which were extinguished by units of the Ministry of Emergency Situations and local executive authorities, according to Kazakh media.

Thirteen wildfires and natural fire incidents remain under control in the East Kazakhstan, Abai, Akmola and Karaganda regions.

Firefighting efforts are being hampered by hard-to-reach mountainous and steppe terrain, difficult topography, high temperatures and strong gusty winds. Around 1,300 personnel and more than 240 vehicles and pieces of equipment have been deployed to the operations.

Drones and Kazaviaspas aircraft are being used to monitor the situation and detect new fire hotspots. Rescuers are primarily focused on preventing the flames from spreading to populated areas, residential buildings and economic facilities.

By Jeyhun Aghazada