Devastating Earthquake Strikes Morocco, Leaving Thousands Dead
MARRAKECH, Morocco – Tragedy struck Morocco as the deadliest earthquake in decades wreaked havoc on the country, claiming the lives of over 2,000 people. The catastrophic 6.8 magnitude quake struck late on Friday, leaving behind a path of destruction in the mountains surrounding Marrakech.
Rescue operations are underway as crews tirelessly search for survivors amidst the wreckage. The affected region comprises remote villages nestled in the High Atlas mountains, making access challenging for relief workers. These rugged areas often suffer from geographical remoteness, exacerbating the difficulties faced by those in need.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, sizable portions of cliffs have collapsed onto the road near the town of Moulay Brahim, partially obstructing the vital route connecting Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains.
Tragically, the current death toll stands at 2,012, with an additional 2,059 individuals reported injured, of which 1,404 are considered critical. As a result, Morocco has declared three days of mourning, while King Mohammed VI has called for prayer services to honor the deceased at mosques across the country.
The World Health Organization highlights that the disaster has affected more than 300,000 people, exacerbating the urgency for immediate action. Caroline Holt, Global Director of Operations for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, emphasizes that the next 24 to 48 hours are crucial for saving lives. Search and rescue efforts are being prioritized, alongside the vital provision of safe drinking water and ensuring the well-being of survivors.
One of the hardest-hit areas is the village of Tansghart in the Ansi region, situated on the precipice of a valley along the road leading from Marrakech to the High Atlas mountains. The picturesque village, which clings precariously to the steep hillside, has seen its homes cracked open and mangled by the seismic event. The houses that remain standing are marred by missing chunks of wall or plaster, while two mosque minarets lie destroyed.
Among the harrowing tales of survival is that of Abdellatif Ait Bella, a laborer left incapacitated after being struck by falling debris. His wife, Saida Bodchich, despairs for their family of six as they lack a home to shelter him and have had no food since the disaster. The couple’s livelihood now rests solely on divine intervention, as they pray for assistance.
Video footage from the quake-ravaged town of Moulay Brahim, located approximately 50 km south of Marrakech, captures the intense rescue efforts with rescue teams pulling survivors from the rubble. The gravity of the situation is evident as the rescuers embrace each other, following the successful extraction of an injured individual.
The epicenter of this devastating earthquake is estimated to be around 72 km southwest of Marrakech, a city renowned for its enchanting mosques, palaces, and seminaries adorned with vibrant mosaic tiling. The old quarter of Marrakech endured significant damage, forcing families to spend a second night on the streets, fearing the instability of their homes.
As Morocco grapples with its deadliest earthquake since 1960, when a quake claimed the lives of at least 12,000 people, international support and solidarity pour in. Turkey, still reeling from its own devastating earthquakes earlier this year, is among the nations offering assistance.
In the midst of this solemn moment, Marrakech prepares for the upcoming annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, scheduled for October 9. While these plans continue, the IMF underscores its primary focus on supporting Morocco in coping with this tragedy.
As Morocco and its people mourn the loss of lives, the authorities and international organizations join hands to provide relief, support, and assistance to those affected. It is a time for unity, resilience, and a concerted effort to help the nation rebuild and heal from the deadliest earthquake in decades.
