Morocco Battles Forest Blaze Near Tetouan as Canadair Planes Join Fight

• Morocco’s forest fire near Tetouan has mobilized extensive firefighting crews.
• Canadair aircraft are being used in the response efforts to the blaze.
• Authorities emphasized the need for vigilance due to heightened fire risks.
• In 2024, Morocco saw a notable drop in wildfires compared to previous years.
• The government allocated $17 million to enhance wildfire response capabilities.

Moroccan Authorities Respond to Forest Fire with Aviation Support

Forest Blaze Near Tetouan in Morocco Poses Significant Challenges—Ground Efforts Gather Momentum Early Saturday morning, a significant forest fire erupted in the vicinity of Mellalyène, located within the Tetouan region of northern Morocco. In response, Moroccan authorities quickly mobilized an extensive firefighting operation, deploying both ground crews and Canadair aircraft to combat the flames. The situation has called for not just swift action, but also made apparent the risks associated with such wildfires during the dry season. The director of Climate and Environmental Risks and Reforestation at the National Water and Forest Agency, Fouad El Assali, has emphasized that they are resorting to “intensive ground operations” supported by four Canadair amphibious aircraft in the effort to contain the fire. However, he cautioned that it remains too early to ascertain the full extent of the damage inflicted by this incident.

Heightened Preparedness for Forest Fires in Morocco

Increasing Fire Risks Lead to Heightened Alert—Preparedness Measures in Place The urgent response to the forest blaze comes amidst rising fire risks throughout Morocco’s northern provinces. Earlier in July, the National Water and Forest Agency urged local residents to maintain vigilance and report any sightings of smoke or suspicious movements near forested areas, a proactive approach in combating potentially devastating wildfires. As of now, the situation is monitored consistently, with firefighting protocols set in place to prevent further spread. There is historical context to this, as revealed by Abderrahim Houmy, the director general of the Agency, explaining that Morocco recorded a significant reduction in wildfires in 2024, marking a 82% dip from the previous year. In light of these figures, the government has allocated $17 million to enhance wildfire response, indicating a determination to significantly increase the resources dedicated to this crucial issue.

Challenges in Containing Fires and Future Resilience Strategies

Ongoing Wildfire Efforts and Strategic Investments amid Natural Disasters While firefighting teams have battled blazes for four consecutive days, challenges persist, such as high temperatures and relentless winds in areas like the Houara Forest near Tangier. This arduous fight underscores the vulnerabilities faced by Morocco’s forests, which encompass roughly 12% of the national territory and are perpetually at risk due to fluctuating climate conditions and human negligence. In a proactive measure, following the destruction caused by the 2023 earthquake in the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco has committed to investing 7 billion dirhams—approximately $760 million—in emergency supplies and storage capabilities nationwide. Overall, as Morocco grapples with such environmental hazards, the focus remains on preparedness, resilience, and swift response.

To sum it up, the recent forest fire near Tetouan has prompted an intensive firefighting response, including Canadair aircraft deployment. Authorities are taking preventive measures amid increasing fire risks across northern Morocco, urging local residents to remain vigilant. The government has acknowledged the need for enhanced disaster management strategies, underscoring its readiness to invest significantly in emergency resources moving forward.