Algeria faces deadly wildfires as interior ministry launches aid operations

A series of wildfires has resulted in six deaths across northern Algeria over the past ten days, as extreme temperatures continue to impact the region. The Algerian Ministry of the Interior confirmed the casualties on Tuesday, announcing that authorities are conducting a comprehensive assessment of damages to facilitate financial compensation for affected citizens. Civil protection services have reported approximately 1,550 fire incidents throughout the country during the recent period.

The situation is particularly critical in the Annaba province, where a wildfire reached the mountain town of Seraidi. Minister of the Interior Said Sayoud confirmed that approximately 150 homes have sustained damage in the area. Emergency operations led to the urgent evacuation of over 100 patients, including those being treated for burns, from a local hospital to alternative facilities. Ground and aerial firefighting units remain deployed across multiple regions to contain the blazes and prevent further spread.

Algeria has experienced recurring, severe wildfire seasons in recent years, leading to significant loss of life and the destruction of vast forest areas, crops, and residential property. Current efforts remain focused on active suppression, public safety, and organizing state-led recovery efforts for those affected by the destruction.