Devastating forest fires broke out across several regions in eastern Bejaïa on Wednesday, August 26. The blazes spread rapidly, creating what witnesses described as an apocalyptic atmosphere for several hours. Local populations were gripped by fear as the flames intensified. Isolated homes were particularly threatened by the encroaching fire. Emergency situations developed in various localities and small hamlets starting mid-morning. The scale of the disaster caused widespread anxiety among the affected residents. Authorities struggled to contain the fast-moving front of the wildfires.