Wildfires Claim 12 Lives in Northern Algeria Amid Intense Heatwave
At least 12 people have been killed and dozens injured as wildfires spread through several provinces along northern Algeria’s coast.
Strengthening Emergency Services reported that 69 blazes were burning across the nation, as the country was under an unprecedented heatwave. Interior Minister Said Sayoud said 54 people suffered burns, with six of them receiving intensive care treatments.
The deadliest number of victims came from Jijel province – five people lost their lives – followed by four deaths in Bejaia and three in Tizi Ouzou. The ministry’s spokesperson noted that many homes in Bejaia and Jijel had been evacuated, and residents were using a post office as a refuge amidst thick smoke.
Sayoud toured Bejaia with Health Minister Mohamed Seddik Ait Messaoudene to evaluate local firefighting and evacuation measures. “We are assessing the ongoing firefighting and evacuation efforts to ensure they are effective.”
These are not isolated incidents. Three years earlier, intense fires in the Bejaia region killed 30 people. In July, authorities recorded over 2,000 blazes across Algeria, registering at least six deaths from fire that month.
While forest fires are a seasonal challenge in Algeria, climate change is pushing intensity higher. The World Meteorological Organization’s latest report shows extreme heat has become common in North Africa, which has recorded rapid warming of 0.43°C per decade between 1991 and 2025. The convergence of high temperatures and scarce water supply—further highlighted by a recent study noting increased camel deaths during summer heatwaves—heightens the risk of far‑reaching wildfire disasters.
For those wanting to understand the broader context of climate‑induced disasters, BBC Africa offers further coverage and analysis. Follow up for the latest developments.
