Fires in northeastern Hasakah burn over 5,000 acres of farmland

DAMASCUS, Syria — Multiple fires broke out on Tuesday in the Kamishly area of northeastern Hasakah province, causing extensive damage to wheat and barley fields during the peak of the harvest season. The blazes spread to farmland near the villages of Nif, Tel Ahmer, Nakar, Kefri Sepi, Sirmika and Tel Fars, according to local farmers and residents. Farmer Shikho Musa said initial estimates indicated that more than 5,000 acres of land had been affected. Hundreds of acres planted with wheat and barley burned, along with large quantities of hay and harvest residue, he said. Musa added that the fires also damaged some livestock, wells and agricultural facilities. Villagers said wind drove the flames rapidly out of control and that initial firefighting teams reached some locations late, allowing the burned area to expand. Officials said extinguishing efforts were continuing.