Rabat — Firefighting teams have successfully controlled three of four main fire zones in a forest blaze that erupted in Derdara commune, Chefchaouen province, northern Morocco, according to Morocco’s National Water and Forest Agency (ANEF).
Aircraft continue working to extinguish the remaining active fire zone.
Ground crews have contained very small fire pockets throughout the affected area, ANEF reported in a statement today.
Officials estimate the fire has damaged approximately 500 hectares of forest land and several nearby agricultural fields.
The firefighting operation mobilizes nearly 450 personnel from various response teams, supported by advanced equipment and technical resources.
The aerial fleet includes four Canadair aircraft and four Turbo Thrush planes deployed to combat the flames.
“The interventions have prevented human casualties,” ANEF noted, noting that efforts are underway on Wednesday with ground teams supported by significant air and logistics resources.
The agency reports notable improvement between Tuesday and Wednesday in controlling the blaze. Officials say conditions have stabilized as crews work to fully contain the remaining fire zones.
All human and logistical resources remain deployed until teams achieve complete control and total extinguishment of the forest fire, ANEF concluded.
The Derdara fire represents one of several forest blazes that typically challenge Morocco’s mountainous northern regions during dry seasons.
Chefchaouen province, known for its forested hills and agricultural areas, requires constant vigilance during fire-prone periods.
Morocco’s northern forests are usually subject to wildfires. Reports indicated that firefighters are racing against time to put out a forest fire in the Benqrih commune, near Tetouan.
The North African country has proven experience in putting out wildfires. The country has sent two Canadair firefighting planes to Portugal to help combat ongoing wildfires.
