Forest fires : Mapping of areas at risk

The National Water and Forestry Agency (ANEF) has forecast a “medium” to “extreme” risk of forest fires in several of the Kingdom’s provinces between July 29 and 31. Current weather conditions, with strong heat waves, high temperatures and low humidity, create an environment conducive to fires. After analyzing data relating to forest types and their combustibility and flammability levels, as well as topoclimatic parameters, ANEF identified an extreme risk (red level) in the provinces of Chefchaouen, Taza, Taroudant, Oujda-Angad, Azilal, Béni Mellal, Ifrane, Khénifra, Sefrou, and Guercif. In a press release, the Agency also reported a high risk (orange level) in the provinces of Tangiers-Assilah, Al Hoceïma, Ouezzane, Driouch, Taounate, and Essaouira. The Agency has also identified a medium risk (yellow level) in the provinces of Fahs-Anjra, Larache, Tétouan, M’Diq-Fnideq, Rabat, Salé, Skhirate-Témara, Kénitra, Berkane, and Nador. ANEF calls on forest dwellers and all summer visitors, as well as people working in forest areas, to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions to avoid forest fires. They are also urged to alert the local authorities promptly in the event of smoke sightings or suspicious behavior. To anticipate the problem of forest fires in Morocco, ANEF uses its scientific forecast models to produce daily maps pinpointing areas at risk throughout the country.

As a reminder, ANEF has earmarked 153 million Dirhams (USD 15 million) for forest fire prevention and control this year. This budget is dedicated to preventive and operational actions, including the maintenance of firebreak trenches, the development of water points, the opening and rehabilitation of forest tracks, preventive silviculture, the maintenance of lookout posts, the mobilization of fire lookouts and the maintenance and purchase of first response vehicles.

A.E.