The General Directorate of Civil Protection has reported numerous forest and brush fires across various provinces in Algeria, with successful intervention efforts in several affected areas.
Jijel: A fire erupted in the Ghezala region of Sidi Maarouf. Swift action by civil protection teams ensured the blaze was completely extinguished.
Skikda: Firefighters managed to control a forest fire in the Kenoua commune, preventing it from spreading further.
Annaba: In the mountainous area of Oued Forcha, a forest fire was put out. Authorities are maintaining a watchful eye to prevent any potential resurgence.
Souk Ahras: Fires broke out in the communes of Heddada and Mechroha. Both were brought under control, though monitoring continues. A second fire in the Sidi Abdallah forest of Mechroha is still being extinguished.
Mila: An outbreak in the Terrai Bainen commune was successfully extinguished, with continued vigilance in place.
Guelma: On Friday, civil protection services intervened to combat a forest fire in the Ain Chouikha region of Bouhamdane commune. The firefighting operation, which involves 16 agents, 5 fire trucks, an ambulance, and 3 AT 802 aircraft, is ongoing. Efforts are focused on fully controlling the fire and preventing any new outbreaks.
The impact of these forest fires is far-reaching. They destroy vegetation, resulting in significant biodiversity loss and disruption to natural habitats for plants and animals. Fires also cause substantial material damage, affecting infrastructure, homes, and agricultural land, which in turn impacts the livelihoods of local communities and incurs high reconstruction costs.
Additionally, forest fires degrade air quality, leading to respiratory problems for those exposed. The economic consequences are severe, with agricultural losses and high expenses associated with firefighting and recovery efforts.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, aiming to mitigate the fires' impact and prevent further outbreaks.