Algeria wildfires kill 12 as 154 fires rage across country

On Wednesday, wildfires raging across northeastern Algeria claimed the lives of 12 individuals while 154 vegetation fires raged nationwide, according to authorities. The interior minister, Said Sayoud, reported that five fatalities occurred in Jijel prefecture, four in Bejaia, and three in Tizi Ouzou. A total of 54 people were injured, with six in critical condition requiring intensive care.

The Civil Protection services recorded 154 vegetation fires across Algeria on Wednesday, with Béjaïa facing the most severe impact, reporting 36 fires, 18 of which were brought under control by Wednesday evening. Emergency crews continued to work on containing the fires and safeguarding residents and property in the affected areas.

The provinces most heavily affected were Jijel, Béjaia, and Tizi Ouzou. In Jijel, five deaths were reported, with multiple fires burning around several towns. Béjaia witnessed four deaths and reported the highest number of individual fires at 36. Tizi Ouzou recorded three fatalities and saw fires reported in several municipalities.

The heatwave intensifying fire conditions across the country added to the danger, as extreme heat and dry vegetation can quickly transform small fires into fast-moving blazes, while winds make containment more challenging. Algeria has faced recurrent summer wildfire disasters in recent years, with notable incidents in 2021, 2022, and 2023, all resulting in significant losses of life and property.