Algerian Wildfires Leave 12 Dead, Dozens Injured Amid Heatwave

The Bouira mountains and other northern regions have been swarmed by a series of blazing fires that have claimed at least 12 lives and injured more than 50 people. Authorities say the incidents unfolded under a severe heatwave that has already scorched northern Africa.

Interior Minister Said Sayoud disclosed that six victims are now in intensive care following the fire‑related burns. The fatalities were recorded in Jijel (five), Bejaia (four) and Tizi Ouzou (three) provinces. Each of these areas had to evacuate numerous homes, with residents taking refuge in community centres.

Firefighters battled 69 simultaneous blazes across the country. The civil protection agency noted that the Bejaia region saw devastating fires three years ago which killed 30 people. Last month, reports indicated that six deaths were linked to fires as crews combated over 2,000 blazes in July alone.

Climate scientists highlight that regional heat has surged rapidly, with northern Africa experiencing the highest warming rate on the continent. Such extreme conditions not only intensify wildfires but also spur water shortages, a scenario that has recently been linked to a rise in camel mortality during summer heatwaves.