In the midst of a scorching heatwave sweeping across North Africa, Algeria is grappling with a catastrophic forest fire situation that has led to the tragic loss of 34 lives, including ten soldiers.

As temperatures soar to extreme levels, neighboring Tunisia also experiences blistering highs of up to 49 degrees Celsius.

Responding to the ferocious wildfires, a force of approximately 7,500 firefighters is tirelessly battling the inferno in the rugged mountainous regions of Bejaia and Bouira. The country's interior ministry is actively coordinating firefighting operations in several areas, including Boumerdes, Bouira, Tizi Ouzou, Jijel, Bejaia, and Skikda. In the face of this emergency, around 1,500 people have been compelled to evacuate their homes in search of safety.

The wildfire devastation has not spared Tunisia, where the border town of Melloula is now under siege. Flames, originating in mountainous terrain, have encroached upon residential areas, leading to the evacuation of hundreds of families. The evacuation efforts have involved various means, such as utilizing fishermen's boats and coastguard vessels to transport residents to safety.

The situation remains critical as thick smoke envelopes the skies, painting them in a brownish orange hue, while the relentless heatwave poses significant challenges for firefighters and affected communities.

Authorities are working tirelessly to contain the spread of the wildfires and provide aid to those impacted by the disaster. The region is on high alert as it grapples with one of the most challenging natural disasters in recent times. (ILKHA)