Moroccan officials continue their relentless fight against wildfires raging through the Houara Forest in northern Tangier.
The fires erupted Monday amid soaring temperatures and fierce winds, complicating efforts to contain the blaze.
As of 1500 GMT Thursday, the fires have ravaged 210 acres, according to Osman El-Azzaoui, regional director of the National Agency of Water and Forests.
Despite deploying three amphibious Canadair aircraft, El-Azzaoui acknowledged the challenge posed by strong winds and rising heat.
Moroccan army units, Royal Gendarmerie, Civil Protection, and Auxiliary Forces are working together in a coordinated response.
Officials announced on May 16 an investment of $17 million to bolster forest fire management ahead of summer 2025.
Director-General Abdelrahim Houmi reported 382 forest fires in 2024, an 82% drop compared to last year’s figures.
Still, wildfires have destroyed 874 hectares, with nearly half the damage hitting secondary vegetation and seasonal plants.
Morocco’s forests cover about 12% of its land, remaining vulnerable to yearly wildfires whose severity depends on climate and human factors.
As Tangier’s skies fill with smoke, the battle to save its forests presses on, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance and resilience.
