Widespread wildfires have engulfed large areas of Libya’s Green Mountain region (Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar) in the country’s east since early Saturday, devastating forests and farmland across multiple districts. The affected areas include Al-Oweilia, Wadi Al-Kouf, Messa, Wardama, and the Bouqrawa forest east of Al-Marj city.
The fires have coincided with a severe heatwave and strong dry southern winds locally known as “Ghibli,” which have fuelled the rapid spread of flames and hampered firefighting operations. Emergency crews continue to struggle due to a shortage of equipment and logistical support, a result of Libya’s ongoing economic challenges.
The Libyan space science foundation “Ru’ya” warned that soaring temperatures and wind speeds—expected to exceed 80 km/h—will likely worsen the fires and expand the affected zone in the coming hours.
Images and videos circulating on social media show intense flames devouring farmland and dense forest, as local residents and environmental activists issue urgent calls for help.
The Agricultural Police in Quba confirmed that three major fires had been recorded in their operational area, destroying over 250 hectares of natural vegetation. Fires erupted near the Lamloudah intersection, inside the Lamloudah Reserve, and in the Ras Al-Hilal forest region. While most fires have been contained with the help of National Safety Authority teams, police patrols, and emergency units, small but active hotspots in Ras Al-Hilal remain inaccessible due to rugged terrain and lack of service roads.
Authorities have urged residents living near forested and mountainous zones to remain cautious and stay away from active fire sites amid volatile and dangerous field conditions.
