Rock Formation Collapse in Turkey Kills at Least Two
An incident in the popular tourist region of Cappadocia resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Parts of a large volcanic rock formation collapsed in Turkey’s Cappadocia region on Thursday, killing at least two people and injuring five others, officials reported. The incident occurred in the Goreme region, a popular tourist destination known for its distinctive geological formations.
Governor Huseyin Kok stated that recent heavy rains likely contributed to the rockfall, which happened near a parking lot at the site's entrance. Rescue teams were deployed to search for potential victims trapped under debris. The nationalities of those killed were not immediately released.
An investigation into the collapse has been launched, according to Justice Minister Akin Gurlek. News footage showed heavy machinery working to clear large sections of rock.
Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Turkey, is renowned for its "fairy chimney" rock formations and ancient underground cities. The area is a major tourist draw. The collapse took place on Turkey’s Republic Day holiday, a time when the site would typically be busy with visitors.