Algeria experts warn of massive floods after deadly wildfires

Algerian experts yesterday warned that “unprecedented floods” may follow the massive wildfires that have hit the country’s northern states if the government does not take proactive measures to limit their effects.

The Echorouk newspaper quoted an expert in major risks, Abdelhamid Boudaoud, saying that “extinguishing the fires does not mean that the country has won. On the contrary, work should start now to do what is necessary to avoid disastrous floods resulting from the fires which burnt the vegetation cover in the mountains and highlands.”

Boudaoud explained that the Algerian authorities should start preparations in the affected areas ahead of the rains.

He warned that failure to take proactive measures may lead to additional victims due to possible floods in the coming months.

READ: Morocco offers to help Algeria tackle forest fires 

The newspaper also quoted the head of the Algerian Association for Emergency Medicine and Disasters, Cordurli Hassine, as saying that wildfires usually cause destructive floods due to the burning of vegetation cover, as the waters resulting from rainfall, especially in the mountains and highlands, descend with great force on slopes towards valleys, and sweep away everything on their way, causing flooding and eroding roads.

Cordurli added that the Algerian authorities must launch an emergency plan to reduce the potential impact of floods in the areas hit by forest fires.

The proactive measures include swift cleaning of silt and mud from dams, and reducing water levels at reservoirs to allow for rainwater to be stored there.