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Chefchaouen battles forest fires as heat waves intensify across Morocco
Authorities in Chefchaouen province are grappling with the aftermath of a large-scale forest fire that devastated extensive woodland in the Dardara and Bab Taza areas. Despite containing the initial blaze, new outbreaks have been reported this week, keeping emergency teams on high alert.
Fouad Assali, Director of Afforestation and Climate and Environmental Risk Management at the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), confirmed to SNRTNews that the latest fire, which ignited on Monday morning, was swiftly brought under control. However, the earlier fire had already consumed over 500 hectares of forest, necessitating the deployment of more than 450 personnel, assisted by four Canadair planes and four Turbo Trash aircraft.
For six consecutive days, military units, firefighters, and auxiliary forces have remained stationed in the area, tackling persistent hot “chergui” winds that threaten to reignite flames. These dry, intense winds are notorious for transforming minor sparks into uncontrollable infernos.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the origins of the fire, which has left behind widespread destruction, displaced wildlife, and charred landscapes. Officials have urged vigilance among residents and visitors, emphasizing the importance of immediate reporting of smoke or suspicious activity.
Rising fire risks amid Morocco’s heat waves
As Morocco endures successive heat waves, the ANEF has issued a special bulletin warning of heightened fire risks from August 17 to 20. Chefchaouen, Fahs Anjra, Tangier-Asilah, M’diq-Fnideq, and Taza have been identified as the most vulnerable regions.
Al Hoceima, Larache, Ouezzane, Tetouan, Ifrane, and Taounate provinces are also at high risk, while Berkane, Nador, Oujda-Angad, Sefrou, Rabat, Beni Mellal, and Agadir Ida Outanane face moderate danger. The agency called on forest workers, residents, and summer visitors to act responsibly, warning that even minor negligence could lead to devastating consequences.
In addition to its advisory, the ANEF has reinforced its appeal for public cooperation, urging citizens to promptly notify authorities of any signs of fire or unusual activity to prevent further disasters.