An alarm was raised in Cappadocia, Turkey, on Thursday afternoon after one of the region’s distinctive rock formations, known as “fairy chimneys,” collapsed at the entrance to the Göreme Open-Air Museum.

According to reports from Turkish media, the collapse resulted in fatalities and injuries, although the exact number of victims and the severity of the injured people’s conditions had not yet been confirmed.

In initial statements, Nevşehir Governor Hüseyin Kök reported at least two deaths and one injury. “We recovered the bodies of two people who lost their lives due to falling rocks caused by a landslide. We transported one injured person to the hospital for treatment. Search and rescue operations are continuing at the scene,” he said.

Numerous rescue teams and ambulances have been dispatched to the site, while emergency response operations remain underway.

The cause of the collapse has not yet been established. However, there is speculation that the heavy rainfall affecting the area in recent hours may have played a significant role.

Accident at One of Turkey’s Most Popular Tourist Attractions

The collapse occurred on a day of increased visitor numbers, as October 29 is a national holiday in Turkey, marking the anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey.

Many people had chosen to take advantage of the holiday by going on excursions to Cappadocia, with the Göreme Open-Air Museum being one of the region’s major attractions.

Cappadocia’s distinctive rock formations, known as “fairy chimneys,” were created by the erosion of volcanic rock over thousands of years.

Göreme is internationally renowned for these formations, as well as for its historic churches and monasteries carved into the rocks. The area is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Hot-Air Balloon Flights Canceled Due to Weather Conditions

Weather conditions across the wider Nevşehir area of Cappadocia are unfavorable, with rainfall and strong winds resulting in the cancellation of hot-air balloon flights today (October 29). Balloon rides are among the most popular activities for both Turkish and international tourists.

According to Turkish authorities, flights scheduled for tomorrow, Friday (October 30), have also been canceled following an assessment of meteorological forecasts by the local office of the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (SHGM).

Hot-air balloon flights in Cappadocia operate an average of 220 days per year and are permitted only when the relevant authorities determine that weather conditions are suitable for safe operations.