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Algerians Struggle with the Aftermath of Catastrophic Wildfires

July 29, 2023

1 min read

The Kabylia region in northeast Algeria is reeling from the disastrous impact of wildfires that caused extensive damage, claimed 34 lives, and destroyed many homes. The fires raged through mountain forests for several days, fueled by strong winds and summer heat.

Emotional and Psychological Support Provided

The tragedy has left many residents traumatized, leading to the dispatch of psychiatrist support units to the affected area to provide emotional and psychological care. The region is struggling without access to water and electricity, and aid supplies are being distributed to help meet the immediate needs of the people.

Assistance Needed in Bejaia

Residents of Bejaia, a city 250 kilometers from Algiers, are requesting assistance, including clothes, mattresses, and other essential items. The situation is dire, and the people need all the help they can get.

Extensive Damage in Ait Oussalah

Ait Oussalah, a small village, lost 16 people while attempting to escape the fire, accounting for 10% of the village’s population. The area also suffered enormous damage to farmland, with one local reporting a loss of 99% of their land. Despite the devastation, the affected communities remain resilient and determined to rebuild.

Investigations Ongoing

Questions have arisen concerning the origins of the fires, leading to investigations. The prosecutor’s office in Algiers reported that a judge has ordered 12 individuals allegedly involved in starting several of the wildfires to be held in provisional detention.

Extensive Response

Over 100 fires raged across 17 provinces at the fires’ peak, leading to the evacuation of more than 1,500 people. Around 8,000 civil defense personnel, 500 firetrucks, and multiple chartered aircraft were mobilized to combat the wildfires.

Assessment and Compensation

Interior Minister Brahim Merad instructed local authorities to assess the damages and identify victims for swift compensation. The region has battled forest fires in the past, but this year’s Mediterranean heatwave has intensified the situation, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this recurring threat.

Path Forward

The Algerian people face a long road to recovery, but the resilience of affected communities, combined with support from authorities and mental health professionals, offers hope for the future.

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Algerians Struggle with the Aftermath of Catastrophic Wildfires