Wildfires kill 12 in Algeria as heatwave fuels 154 blazes
What's new: At least 54 people were burned, six critically, and evacuations were reported in Bejaia and Jijel.
Wildfires driven by extreme heat killed at least 12 people across northern Algeria, with the dead reported in Jijel, Bejaia and Tizi Ouzou provinces. Interior Minister Said Sayoud said 54 people suffered burn injuries, including six in intensive care. Civil protection authorities counted 154 fires nationwide on Wednesday, including 36 in Bejaia, where many homes were evacuated along with parts of Jijel. Firefighting aircraft faced difficulties because unstable weather and strong winds limited operations. The blazes hit as North Africa endures a severe heatwave, with Algeria and Tunisia among the hardest-hit areas.