Algeria wildfire death toll rises as survivors report total devastation

Algeria’s interior ministry announced that at least 12 people have died as wildfires continue to sweep the country’s northeastern region, and officials warned that the death toll could increase as rescue operations progress. The fires, which ignited in the early hours of the day, have spread across several municipalities in the provinces of Annaba and Skikda, prompting the deployment of firefighting units, military personnel, and emergency medical teams to the affected areas.

Authorities are focusing on containing the blazes, evacuating residents from high‑risk zones, and providing assistance to families of the victims. The rapid spread of the flames has been attributed to prolonged drought, high temperatures, and strong winds that have created conditions conducive to intense fire activity. Local officials said that damage to homes, agricultural land, and infrastructure is extensive, and that the situation remains fluid as crews work to bring the fires under control while monitoring for further casualties.