A wildfire erupted early Friday in the Ziz Oasis, one of Morocco’s largest oases, located in the Errachidia province of southeastern Morocco.
The reasons for the blaze remain unknown. Videos shared online show thick layers of smoke billowing from the oasis.
Local firefighters and various authorities have launched a coordinated response to the unexpected blaze, involving units from civil protection, the Royal Armed Forces (FAR), the Royal Gendarmerie, and auxiliary forces, according to local news reports.
The fire has raised significant concerns about the livelihoods of date farmers, who are now facing the potential loss of their harvest.
Authorities are facing challenges to contain the fire due to adverse wind and rising temperatures.
“Today’s southern winds and the scarcity of water will complicate the efforts of the firefighters and civil protection,” one resident wrote on Facebook. “Residents of nearby villages are urged to exercise caution and remain on high alert in anticipation of any emergencies.”
Online footage shows burning palm trees and a sky darkened with smoke, painting a grim picture of the ongoing disaster.