Algerian orphanage fire kills 11 amid heatwave

A devastating fire swept through an orphanage in the eastern suburbs of Algiers, Algeria, early on July 16, claiming the lives of 11 people and leaving 19 others injured. The blaze occurred in the Mohammadia district of the capital city.

Civil defense units are continuing firefighting efforts. Among the injured, 10 sustained burns of varying severity. Authorities reported that five disabled residents were safely evacuated from the burning building. The identities and ages of the deceased, as well as the exact cause of the fire, have not yet been released by the civil defense agency.

The incident comes as Algeria grapples with a severe heatwave. According to the state news agency APS, citing the national civil defense directorate, fire crews have battled 913 fires across the country since July 8. The extreme temperatures are believed to be a contributing factor to the increased fire incidents.

Further details regarding the orphanage, the victims, and the ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire are expected as the situation develops.