Deadly wildfires strike northeastern Algeria

On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, severe wildfires broke out across northeastern Algeria, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 people and numerous injuries. The casualties were reported in three specific provinces: five deaths in Jijel, four in Bejaia, and three in Tizi Ouzou. Among the victims in Bejaia are an 8-year-old boy and a 22-year-old woman, while 54 individuals in that region sustained injuries, with six currently in serious condition.

Interior Minister Said Sayoud and Health Minister Mohamed Sadik Ait Messaoudene have traveled to Bejaia to oversee firefighting operations and medical relief efforts. The fires, fueled by strong winds, have forced hundreds of residents to evacuate and resulted in the closure of three major national highways in the region. Authorities remain on high alert as active fronts continue to burn across the area.

Northern Algeria frequently experiences deadly wildfires during the summer months due to seasonal environmental conditions. Currently, firefighting teams are deployed across the affected provinces, working to contain the spread of the blazes while managing the emergency response for displaced citizens.