Algiers, August 27: A severe wildfire in northeastern Algeria has wreaked havoc, resulting in the tragic deaths of 12 individuals. According to authorities, the fires have particularly affected the regions of Jijel and Béjaïa. Following the directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Interior Minister Saïd Sadi visited these areas on Thursday to assess the rescue operations and check on the injured at local hospitals.
As reported by Xinhua, Minister Saïd Sadi confirmed that the fatalities include five from Jijel, four from Béjaïa, and three from Tizi Ouzou. He inspected a hospital in the city of Souk El Thenine in Béjaïa, where he monitored the treatment of those affected by burns and smoke inhalation.
Officials noted that on Wednesday, fires were reported in 159 locations across the country, with 36 incidents occurring solely in Béjaïa. Firefighters have managed to control 18 of these blazes, but 18 active fires remain in the region. Efforts are also ongoing in 12 municipalities in the neighboring Jijel province to combat the flames.
Algerian authorities have successfully contained fires in the provinces of Skikda, El Tarf, Bouira, Tizi Ouzou, and Tebessa. Many families have been evacuated to safer locations.
Amid these wildfires, Algeria and neighboring Tunisia are experiencing a severe heatwave, which has increased the risk of fire spread due to extreme temperatures.
Wildfires in Algeria’s Mediterranean coastal areas typically escalate during the summer months. In recent years, rising temperatures, drought, and strong winds have exacerbated this risk.
Following President Tebboune’s orders, Minister Sadi, along with Health Minister Mohamed Sidik Ait Mesoud, visited Béjaïa and Jijel to oversee firefighting efforts and check on the well-being of the injured.
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