Morocco Battles Forest Blaze Near Tetouan as Canadair Planes Join Fight
- A forest fire near Tetouan in Morocco ignites extensive firefighting efforts.
- Ground crews and Canadair aircraft are deployed to extinguish the flames.
- The Moroccan government recently allocated $17 million for wildfire response initiatives.
Intense firefighting operations in Tetouan region
A significant forest fire has erupted near Tetouan, a city in northern Morocco, prompting an extensive firefighting response that began early on a recent Saturday morning. The blaze sparked quickly in a forested area close to Mellalyène, which falls under the Tetouan region. To fight the flames, ground crews are employing what is described as “intensive operations,” supplemented by support from four Canadair amphibious aircraft that are integral to the firefighting effort.
Government prepares for wildfire season with funding
Fouad El Assali, who oversees Climate and Environmental Risks and Reforestation at the National Water and Forest Agency, reported on the situation, stating that it remains early to evaluate the damage caused by the fire. With fire risks peaking in various northern provinces, authorities have urged citizens near forested zones to be vigilant and report any signs of smoke or other suspicious activities, especially following a cautionary message issued on July 15. Moreover, in anticipation of wildfire occurrences, the Moroccan government announced in May the allocation of $17 million for mitigation efforts during the upcoming summer season.
Statistics reveal concerning wildfire trends in Morocco
While the National Water and Forest Agency analyzed the situation, it was noted that Morocco had experienced a substantial decrease in wildfires this year—382 incidents reported in 2024, marking an 82% drop from previous years. Still, the impact is considerable, as the fires affected 874 hectares, with seasonal plants and grasses making up nearly 45% of the burned area. Given that forests constitute about 12% of Morocco’s land, their vulnerability to both climatic irregularities and human negligence raises serious concerns regarding future wildfires.
The fierce forest blaze near Tetouan has prompted a robust response from Moroccan authorities who are employing ground crews and aerial assistance. As precautionary measures are escalated, the government is also planning investments to better prepare for wildfires in the future, amidst a notable drop in fire incidents over the past year. Citizens remain on alert as the ongoing efforts aim to contain the flames and protect the vulnerable forest areas.
