Algeria has been battling devastating forest fires that have claimed the lives of at least 34 people.

However, authorities have reported that they have made significant progress in containing the wildfires.

According to Algerian officials, as of Sunday, approximately 80% of the blazes have been brought under control thanks to the heroic efforts of about 8,000 firefighting personnel, hundreds of fire trucks, and several aircraft involved in the firefighting operation.

Despite the progress made, firefighters are not easing up, as they continue to tackle the remaining fires that are ravaging the northern and eastern regions of the country. The situation remains critical, with thirteen outbreaks still active in seven prefectures in the affected areas.

The firefighting efforts have been supported by the use of aerial assets, along with improved weather conditions, including lower temperatures compared to the extreme 48-degree Celsius peaks experienced in some regions.

Forest fires have become a recurring annual challenge for the north and east of Algeria, with the impact exacerbated by climate change-induced phenomena such as droughts and heatwaves. The recent wave of fires has seen nearly 100 incidents affecting more than 15 prefectures, with regions like Bouira, Jijel, and Béjaïa being particularly hard-hit. These areas had already faced severe fires in the past two years, resulting in a significant loss of life.

Amidst the firefighting efforts, a tragic incident occurred during the evacuation of Beni Ksila in the Béjaïa area, where ten soldiers lost their lives after finding themselves surrounded by flames. The fires have also left over 80 people injured, including 25 soldiers in the Béjaïa region, according to reports from local media outlet Radio Soummam.

Over 1,500 individuals have been evacuated from areas threatened by fire tornadoes. Several popular coastal seaside resorts, frequented by summer tourists, have also been completely destroyed by the raging flames.

The affected villages, largely situated in the mountainous Kabylia region, have been grappling with intense heat waves for weeks, resulting in dry and highly vulnerable vegetation that easily catches fire.

Authorities continue to deploy all available resources to combat the fires and protect lives, property, and the environment. The situation remains dynamic, and the response teams are working tirelessly to prevent further casualties and damages. (ILKHA)