Thick plumes of smoke and fierce flames have engulfed the Amelay forest in Morocco’s Chefchaouen province, as emergency teams battle to contain a massive wildfire driven by relentless heat and powerful winds. The blaze, which erupted amid soaring summer temperatures, has rapidly consumed vast swaths of woodland, prompting a full-scale mobilization of firefighting resources across the region.
Canadair aircraft have been deployed to make repeated water drops over the affected areas, while ground operations are being led by Civil Protection units, the Royal Gendarmerie, and Auxiliary Forces. Their efforts are being coordinated with support from all branches of the armed forces and local authorities. “All branches of the armed forces, along with other authorities and firefighters, have joined forces to contain and reduce the blaze,” said one official, emphasizing the challenges posed by the extreme heat and unpredictable wind patterns.
As a precautionary measure, authorities evacuated homes in nearby villages, where residents described scenes of devastation unlike anything they had witnessed before. “Authorities have done everything possible to tackle this immense fire, and we are grateful that no human casualties have been reported,” one local resident shared, expressing both relief and gratitude for the swift response.
Despite the progress made, firefighting teams remain on high alert, working around the clock to prevent the flames from advancing further. With temperatures expected to remain dangerously high, the risk of additional flare-ups looms large. Morocco continues to brace for heightened fire danger, as communities and emergency services stand united in their efforts to protect lives and preserve the region’s natural heritage.