Tragedy caused by fires in northeastern Algeria: 12 dead and dozens injured

Powerful forest fires that have engulfed northeastern Algeria have killed at least 12 people, while dozens of others have been injured. The spread of the flames has also forced many families to leave their homes.

The provinces of Jijel, Bejaia and Tizi Ouzou are the areas where the deaths were reported, according to Algerian authorities and media. Five people died in Jijel, four in Bejaia and three in Tizi Ouzou.

Bejaia remains one of the worst-hit areas. Among the dead are an 8-year-old boy and a 22-year-old woman, while 54 people have been injured in the province. Six of them are in serious condition.

To closely monitor efforts to extinguish the flames and the health situation of the injured, Interior Minister Said Sayoud and Health Minister Mohamed Sadiq Ait Messaoud have arrived in Bejaia.

Strong winds are fueling the spread of dozens of fire hotspots, while the authorities have deployed substantial forces and equipment to halt the advance of the flames.

Local media have published footage of alarmed residents seeking shelter as the fires and smoke approach populated areas. Many families have been evacuated in some locations, while three national roads in eastern Algeria have been blocked because of the fires.

Forest fires are common in northern Algeria during the summer. Drought and high temperatures, exacerbated by climate change, are creating conditions for the flames to spread rapidly.

In recent years alone, fires in the country have claimed dozens of lives, damaged large areas of forest and farmland, and destroyed homes. In some cases, authorities have said the fires may have been deliberately started and have arrested people suspected of arson.