Atrocious weather conditions have been battering northern Algeria since Saturday afternoon. At least three ships were stranded in the port of Algiers. At least three sailors were killed and 18 have been reported missing. In addition, at least three families have lost homes, according to local press sources.
The Algerian cargo ship "Béchar" was thrown against the rocks with twenty members of crew on board. The tug boats were not able to approach the stranded ship while watching its crew suffer. Algerian radio indicates 18 people can be rescued.
The country mobilized all its emergency services, assisted by military helicopters.
The Algerian weather authorities noted 140mm of rain in a mere 48 hours amid very strong winds. (albawaba.com)
