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Devastating fire ravages palm oases in Morocco during critical harvest season
A massive fire erupted in the palm oases of Zagora province, Morocco, on Saturday afternoon, causing widespread panic and threatening the livelihoods of local farmers as the crucial date harvest season begins. The fire, which initially seemed under control, reignited across scattered areas, severely impacting agricultural fields and the region’s primary source of income.
Fire spreads despite firefighting efforts
The blaze affected several areas in the province, forcing firefighters to navigate challenging terrain that hampered their ability to deploy large trucks. Local authorities brought in additional equipment and transported water from wells to combat the flames. Residents joined the firefighting efforts, working tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading further. After hours of coordinated action, the fire was brought under control, though concerns remain about potential flare-ups due to strong winds.
Crops and livelihoods at risk
Eyewitnesses reported that some crops suffered major damage, and farmers fear that the economic toll could worsen if the fire reignites. The timing of the incident is particularly devastating, as it coincides with the harvest season for dates, a key agricultural product in the region. Farmers worry that this year's losses may double due to the fire’s impact.
Recurring threat to oasis communities
This marks the second major fire in the region within a week, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of Morocco’s traditional oasis agriculture to seasonal fires. Residents say these annual blazes pose a serious threat to the environment and local communities, reducing agricultural yields and exacerbating economic hardships.
The incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced fire prevention measures and support for farmers in Morocco’s oasis regions, where climate vulnerabilities and limited resources compound the challenges of protecting livelihoods and natural landscapes.
