Twelve people died and dozens were injured as wildfires tore through several northern Algerian provinces on Wednesday, August 26th, 2026. Interior Minister Said Sayoud reported the fatalities included five in Jijel province, four in Bejaia, and three in Tizi Ouzou.

Algeria's civil protection services recorded 154 wildfires across the country on the same day, with 36 fires reported in Bejaia province alone, 18 of which had been brought under control. Numerous families were evacuated in provinces including Bejaia and Jijel as flames neared populated areas.

Sayoud and Health Minister Mohamed Seddik Ait Messaoudene traveled to Bejaia to oversee firefighting efforts and check on the injured. Sayoud stated that 54 people suffered burn injuries, six of whom are in critical condition and receiving intensive care.

Authorities noted that Algeria has been grappling with wildfires throughout the summer, with at least six fatalities reported last month in various provinces. The current wildfires coincide with a severe heatwave affecting the broader North Africa region.

Sources