Powerful 6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Devastates Morocco, Leaving 296 Dead
In a tragic turn of events, Morocco was struck by a powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake on Friday night, resulting in a death toll of 296 and leaving many injured. The earthquake caused widespread destruction, reducing buildings to rubble and dust. Even the famous red wall that encompassed the historic city of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was not spared from the devastation.
The majority of casualties were reported in the municipalities and provinces of al-Haouz, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Taroudant, and Chichaoua. Videos captured the horrifying scenes as residents and tourists fled from collapsing structures, seeking safety amidst the chaos. People could be heard screaming and restaurants were evacuated, while throbbing music played in the background, amplifying the sense of panic.
According to authorities, the most significant damage occurred in areas outside the towns and cities. Major urban centers, including the capital Rabat and the popular tourist destination of Marrakech, bore the brunt of the destruction. This forced residents to pour into the streets, seeking refuge from the relentless shaking.
Make dua tonight for your brothers and sisters in Morocco. Devastating news. May Allah make it easy for them all, and have mercy on their deceased ones. Ameen #MoroccoEarthquake 🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/W7X33Vuluj
— Dr. Omar Suleiman (@omarsuleiman504) September 9, 2023
The earthquake’s epicenter was situated high in the Atlas Mountains, approximately 70 kilometers south of Marrakech. This location was ominously close to Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, and Oukaimeden, a renowned Moroccan ski resort. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) initially recorded the quake as having a magnitude of 6.8, while Morocco’s National Seismic Monitoring and Alert Network measured it at 7 on the Richter scale. The epicenter was estimated to be 18 kilometers below the surface.
Prayers🙏 for Morocco
Powerful earthquake with M 6. 8 hit Morocco resulting in deaths of at least 296 people. #Morocco #earthquake #moroccoearthquake #deprem #morocco #maroc #earthquakes #abhisha #G20India2023 #DollarRate pic.twitter.com/dPSsOCPeDY
— Suhan Raza (@SuhanRaza4) September 9, 2023
The impact of the earthquake extended far beyond Moroccan borders, with tremors being felt as far away as Algeria and Portugal. The quake’s intensity was significant enough to capture the attention of global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Expressing his deep sorrow for the loss of lives, PM Modi offered his condolences to those affected and wished for a swift recovery for the injured. He also extended India’s willingness to provide any necessary assistance to Morocco during this difficult time.
#WATCH | G 20 in India | PM Modi at the G 20 Summit says “Before we start the proceedings of G20, I want to express my condolences over the loss of lives due to an earthquake in Morocco. We pray that all injured recover at the earliest. India is ready to offer all possible… pic.twitter.com/ZTqcg11cKI
— ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2023
As Morocco begins to assess the extent of the damage, the international community stands ready to support the nation’s recovery efforts. With search and rescue operations underway and emergency response teams mobilized, it is crucial to provide assistance and resources to the affected regions. The road to recovery will undoubtedly be challenging, but with collective support and solidarity, Morocco can rebuild and heal from this devastating natural disaster.
While the immediate focus remains on rescue and relief efforts, attention will soon turn to implementing measures to mitigate the impact of future earthquakes in this seismically active region. As communities come together to rebuild their lives, it is essential to prioritize long-term strategies that ensure the safety and resilience of the Moroccan people.
