Morocco Earthquake Kills More Than 2,000 People
Deadly 6.8-magnitude earthquake hits Morocco, 2,100 dead, 2,400 injured, rescue challenges persist, aftershocks feared, calls for earthquake preparedness.
A rare powerful earthquake struck Morocco late Friday 8th September 2023 night, claiming thousands of lives. The 6.8-magnitude quake lasted for several seconds. The epicenter was about 72 km southwest of the popular tourist city of Marrakesh. Rescuers were digging through rubble in remote mountainous areas of Morocco on Saturday in a desperate bid to find survivors. This is the deadliest earthquake to strike Morocco. Morocco will observe three days of mourning following the quake. Flags will be flown at half-staff on all public buildings.
Here's a quick roundup of the situation on the ground:
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The death toll from Friday's earthquake has risen to over 2,100, with 2,400 more injured. The deaths were also recorded in Ouarzazate, Chichaoua, Azilal, and Youssoufia provinces and the Casablanca area.
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Rescuers are scrambling to save people in isolated communities in the High Atlas mountains, with aid deliveries hampered by blocked roads.
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Many people in devastated villages are reporting a lack of vital supplies like food, water and shelter
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Tents have been set up in some areas, while many people are responding to calls to donate blood
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But assistance is arriving in places, after the Moroccan army cleared a key road from Marrakesh to the mountains early.
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Aftershocks are anticipated, which could cause further damage to already weakened buildings.
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Morocco is located on plate boundaries, suggesting it is prone to earthquakes.
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It is crucial for the country to implement measures such as earthquake-resistant buildings and evacuation plans to prepare for future seismic events.
