Race Against Time: Death Toll Soars as Rescuers Search for Survivors in Morocco Earthquake
AMIZMIZ, Morocco – Rescuers are engaged in a desperate race against time as they search for survivors amidst the wreckage left by a devastating earthquake that struck central Morocco two days ago. The death toll has surged to at least 2,122, with more than 2,400 others reported injured, according to the latest figures released by the Moroccan Interior Ministry.
The earthquake, which measured 6.8 on the Richter scale, caused extensive damage in the isolated and hard-to-reach Atlas Mountains region. The remoteness of the affected areas, coupled with blocked roads caused by fallen boulders, has posed a significant challenge to search and rescue efforts.
Caroline Holt, director of disaster, climate, and crises for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), acknowledged the difficulty in reaching these remote areas, stating that getting heavy machinery into those remote areas is a priority.
In Amizmiz, a small town at the foot of the quake-hit mountain range, police and local residents can be seen tirelessly digging through the rubble using shovels and even their bare hands. The narrow alleyways between buildings make it impossible for machines to navigate the area.
The devastation caused by the earthquake is evident in Amizmiz, where piles of building debris are scattered throughout the town. Many structures constructed with mud bricks were unable to withstand the powerful tremors.
Local residents have been forced to seek shelter in makeshift tents along the main road, fearing further aftershocks. Amin, a resident of Amizmiz, emphasized the urgent need for food and cover, particularly for the elderly and children who are enduring another night outdoors.
While Amizmiz has experienced some casualties, it is the mountainous villages that have suffered the most significant damage, leaving villagers in desperate need of assistance. Consequently, local resident Abdessamad el-Gzouli called for help to reach these hard-to-access areas.
The Moroccan Interior Ministry has reported that the majority of the deaths occurred in the Al Haouz Province, with additional fatalities reported in Taroudant, Chichaoua, and Marrakesh.
In addition to the loss of life and infrastructure damage, the earthquake has caused severe destruction to historical sites in the region. The Tinmel Mosque, a 12th-century mosque located in the village of Tinmel, and parts of the historic red walls in Marrakesh have also crumbled due to the powerful tremor.
Aid is pouring in from around the world to assist with the rescue and relief operations. The Red Cross Society of China has pledged $200,000 in emergency humanitarian assistance, while Spain, Britain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have dispatched search and rescue teams to aid in the efforts.
As the situation unfolds, the immediate focus remains on rescuing survivors and providing support to those affected by the earthquake. The IFRC has allocated significant funds from its emergency disaster fund, and global humanitarian organizations are prepared to offer ongoing assistance as the long-term recovery process begins.
In the days to come, it will be crucial for international aid agencies and local authorities to coordinate their efforts effectively. With the clock ticking, every minute counts in the race against time to save lives and alleviate the suffering caused by this tragic natural disaster.
