
Algeria is experiencing an intense heatwave, with the National Meteorological Office issuing a special bulletin for exceptionally high temperatures. Over 35 wilayas across the country are expected to see temperatures between 45 and 48°C in the shade. This heatwave is projected to continue until at least July 20. A first group of wilayas, including Sidi Bel Abbès, Tissemsilt, Relizane, Béjaïa, M'Sila, Tiaret, Mila, Guelma, Tizi Ouzou, Chlef, Batna, Annaba, Djelfa, Constantine, Skikda, Jijel, Aïn Defla, Médéa, El Tarf, Saïda, Bouira, and Mascara, are under a direct alert. A second group, comprising Souk Ahras, Timimoun, In Salah, Laghouat, Bordj Bou Arréridj, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, Tamanrasset, Oum El Bouaghi, Tébessa, Sétif, Tlemcen, El Bayadh, Khenchela, Adrar, and Naâma, is also affected. The peak of the heatwave is anticipated on Monday, with interior regions of the west, center, and east expecting highs between 45 and 47°C. Coastal areas will experience temperatures between 38 and 45°C, while southern wilayas in the Sahara could reach 40 to 49°C. A significant concern is the lack of nocturnal relief, with night temperatures remaining high, between 25 and 28°C in the north and 30 to 35°C in the south, exacerbating health risks, especially for the elderly, children, and chronically ill. The Ministry of Interior advises avoiding direct sun exposure between 11 am and 4 pm, staying hydrated, and limiting travel during the hottest hours. It is also strictly forbidden to leave chil
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Algérie360.
Must ReadAlgeria has emerged as a significant player in the global helium market, becoming the third-largest supplier to the United States between 2021 and 2024. During this period, Algeria supplied 10% of US helium imports, trailing Canada at 47% and Qatar at 28%, but surpassing China's 5%. This rise is attributed to increasing global demand, geopolitical shifts, and disruptions in traditional supply chains. The country holds the fourth-largest helium reserves globally, with approximately 8 billion cubic meters and an annual production of 11 million cubic meters. The state-owned company Sonatrach aims to further capitalize on this potential. The global helium market has experienced instability since February, driven by geopolitical developments in the Middle East and trade tensions between the US and China, leading to a 50% increase in helium prices. The halt of Qatari exports and reduced Chinese supply have prompted international buyers to seek new, stable sources, with Algeria benefiting from this reconfiguration. Algerian helium is a byproduct of natural gas extraction, providing a competitive advantage. Helium is a strategic resource critical for advanced industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, medical imaging, and artificial intelligence, which require large volumes for cooling and purification. Algerian authorities, including the President of the Republic, are focused on strengthening the country's presence in the international helium market.

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Air Algérie has marked a significant step in its transformation with three major developments overseen by the Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport. The airline received its first Boeing 737 MAX 8, named "El Hourria," initiating an acquisition program for ten such aircraft. These deliveries, scheduled between 2026 and 2027, aim to enhance the airline's medium-haul operational capacity and meet international air transport standards. The 737 MAX 8, known for its optimized fuel consumption and extended range, is part of a broader plan to acquire 18 aircraft, positioning Algiers as an air hub between Africa and Europe. Simultaneously, Air Algérie received its first ATR 72-600, named "Tassili," for its domestic subsidiary, Domestic Airlines. This is the first of 16 such aircraft designed for regional flights, intended to improve frequency and reliability on domestic routes, particularly connecting southern, high plateau, and isolated regions. This investment seeks to reduce mobility disparities and offer a credible air alternative to populations far from major roads. Two new domestic routes, from Algiers to Timimoun and El Oued, were launched on May 24, 2026. Additionally, an industrial catering unit, "Air Taste Factory," was inaugurated. This 14,250-square-meter facility can produce up to 40,000 meals daily for Air Algérie flights, addressing a previously undersized link in the service chain and enhancing passenger experience. These initiatives are part of a wide