The governor of Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima, Younes El Tazi, warned of the danger of fires, which he said threaten the natural environment, while Tangier and cities in the region are experiencing an influx of visitors and tourists.
The governor stated that, so far, the fires that have broken out have been managed successfully with the contribution of all stakeholders and authorities, but he warned of the severity of fires and the disasters they can cause, pointing to the situations faced by some neighboring countries due to fires.
El Tazi held human factors primarily responsible for the outbreak of fires, stating that these represent 99 percent of the cases, considering that the majority act with good intentions, but there are instances where fires are deliberately set.
In this context, the governor urged avoiding starting fires or using them during periods of strong winds, stating that the best fire is the one that is avoided, and he called for raising awareness among citizens and collaborative efforts to prevent the region from fire disasters.
The National Agency for Water and Forests had called on residents near forest areas, as well as those working in them, and holidaymakers and visitors, to exercise caution and avoid any activities that may cause fires, as well as to promptly inform local authorities if they observe any smoke or suspicious behavior.
This call came after the agency updated prediction maps that precisely identify sensitive areas at risk of forest fires based on scientific data, for the period extending from July 6 to July 12, 2026, in order to anticipate the phenomenon of wildfires at the national level.
After analyzing data related especially to the type of forest cover and its flammability and combustibility, along with climate forecasts and the topographical conditions of the areas, the agency identified an extreme level of risk in the regions of Berkane, Nador, Taourirt, Jerada, Ifrane, Taounate, Taza, Khénifra, Al Haouz, Essaouira, Agadir Idaou Tanane, and Taroudant.
A high level of risk was identified in the regions of Chefchaouen, Fahs-Anjra, Larache, Wazzan, Tangier-Assila, Tetouan, Mdiq-Fnideq, Jerada, Oujda-Angad, Fez, Kenitra, Rabat, Salé, Skhirat-Témara, Azilal, Béni Mellal, Chichawa, and Midelt, while a medium risk level was set for the regions of Al Hoceima, Driouch, Meknes, Al Hajeb, Boulemane, Sefrou, Sidi Kacem, and Khemisset.
