Algerian meteorological services issued a warning on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, concerning a severe heatwave expected to bring record temperatures to several states. Forecasts indicate that temperatures could reach 49 degrees Celsius under shade on Wednesday and Thursday. The alert notes the potential for extreme heat conditions across multiple regions of Algeria over the coming days, prompting significant concern among authorities and residents alike. This heatwave is anticipated to be one of the most intense experienced by the country in recent memory, necessitating widespread public awareness and preventative measures.
Most Affected Regions Detailed
Several Algerian states have been placed under a Level 2 alert due to the impending heatwave, signaling a high risk for residents. The affected regions include Biskra (بسكرة), Ouled Djellal (أولاد جلال), El M'Ghair (المغير), and El Oued (الوادي). These areas are forecast to experience maximum temperatures reaching between 48 and 49 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperatures in these same states are expected to hover between 32 and 36 degrees Celsius. Such elevated overnight temperatures offer little respite from the daytime heat, increasing the potential for heat-related illnesses and discomfort among the population. The sustained high temperatures across both day and night show the severity of the Level 2 alert issued by meteorological services, indicating an urgent need for residents to take proactive measures. These specific states are identified as being at the highest risk, requiring immediate attention to public health and safety protocols. Authorities are urging residents in these regions to take extreme precautions to mitigate the health impacts of the severe conditions.
Wider Temperature Alerts
The heatwave extends its reach to several other Algerian states, where maximum temperatures are predicted to range between 43 and 45 degrees Celsius. These areas include Medea (المدية), Bouira (البويرة), Bordj Bou Arréridj (برج بوعريريج), Sétif (سطيف), M'Sila (المسيلة), Mila (ميلة), Constantine (قسنطينة), Souk Ahras (سوق أهراس), and Batna (باتنة). Minimum temperatures in these regions are expected to fall between 26 and 32 degrees Celsius, providing slightly more relief during the night than in the most severely affected states, but still indicating sustained warm conditions. Even with these slightly lower minimums, the daytime heat remains a significant concern, posing risks to public health and daily activities.
Meteorological services also issued warnings for rising temperatures in additional states, forecasting maximums between 44 and 46 degrees Celsius. These elevated temperatures could locally reach 47 and 48 degrees Celsius in Ain Defla (عين الدفلى), Tizi Ouzou (تيزي وزو), Bejaia (بجاية), Jijel (جيجل), Skikda (سكيكدة), Annaba (عنابة), El Tarf (الطارف), and Guelma (قالمة). Minimum temperatures in these areas are projected to range from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius, further emphasizing the widespread nature of the heatwave across various parts of Algeria. The potential for local spikes to 47 and 48 degrees Celsius in these areas indicates pockets of extreme danger, even within a broader high-temperature zone. This broad geographic impact shows the full nature of the meteorological warning.
Health and Safety Precautions
Authorities are urging residents across Algeria to take essential health and safety precautions as the record-breaking heatwave intensifies. Individuals are advised to remain hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if they do not feel thirsty, and to avoid sugary drinks and alcohol which can contribute to dehydration. Limiting exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak hours between 11 AM and 4 PM, is key to prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. The elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable and should take extra measures to stay cool indoors, ideally in air-conditioned environments or well-ventilated spaces. People should wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics to help regulate body temperature and avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors. Seeking shade and using air conditioning or fans can help mitigate heat-related risks, as can taking cool showers or baths. It is also advised to check on neighbors, especially the elderly, to ensure their well-being during this period of extreme heat.
