Devastating Earthquake Hits Morocco, Leaving Over 2000 Dead and Thousands Injured
Morocco was struck by a powerful earthquake on Saturday night, causing widespread destruction and claiming the lives of more than 2012 people, with over 2500 others reported injured, as per data from the Moroccan Ministry of the Interior. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.8, originated in the Atlas Mountains.
Rescue efforts have been underway since the earthquake struck, with the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakesh serving as a central hub for treating and transferring victims. The hospital, known for its advanced facilities, has been receiving a constant flow of ambulances. An ambulance driver from the hospital lamented, “Since the earthquake happened, we have been rescuing bodies and victims from the rubble. I am afraid that we will continue this work in the coming days.”
Authorities have launched search and rescue operations to save those trapped under the debris. In an effort to assist the injured, health authorities have called on citizens to donate blood. The magnitude of the catastrophe has prompted King Mohammed VI to declare a nationwide three-day period of mourning, during which flags will be flown at half-mast across public buildings. Additionally, the king has tasked the government with forming a ministerial committee to devise a plan for rebuilding the destroyed houses.
The historic city of Marrakesh, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has witnessed significant damage and devastation as a result of the earthquake. Numerous buildings have collapsed, leaving countless individuals homeless and forced to seek shelter on the streets. Even the iconic Kotounieh Mosque, which dates back to the 12th century AD, has suffered damage. Fortunately, its celebrated 69-meter minaret, known as the “Roof of Marrakesh,” has remained intact despite some structural impairment.
The hardest-hit areas lie south of Marrakesh, encompassing towns and villages located in the heart of the high Atlas Mountains. These regions are known for being difficult to access, and most of the buildings lack proper earthquake-resistant measures. Experts have emphasized that the majority of the victims are from these remote areas.
This is not the first time Morocco has faced such a devastating earthquake. In 2004, an earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale struck the Al Hochima governorate, resulting in 628 fatalities and extensive damage. The city of Agadir also experienced a catastrophic earthquake in February 1960, with a magnitude of 5.7, claiming the lives of over 15,000 people, equivalent to a third of the city’s population.
As Morocco mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster, the focus now shifts towards providing aid and support to the affected regions, as well as implementing measures to strengthen resilience against future seismic events.