Devastating Earthquake in Morocco Leaves Thousands Dead and Villages in Ruins
Tinmel, Morocco – A catastrophic earthquake in Morocco has resulted in widespread destruction and a rising death toll. The earthquake, which measured 6.8 on the Richter scale, struck the High Atlas Mountains late on Friday, leaving over 2,800 people dead and 2,562 injured.
Numerous villages have been reduced to rubble, with traditional mud brick houses bearing the brunt of the devastation. Search and rescue teams from Spain, Britain, and Qatar have joined local authorities in the efforts to locate survivors. However, the challenging terrain has made it difficult to estimate the number of missing individuals.
The village of Tinmel has been particularly affected, with almost every house reduced to ruins. The stench of death from buried animals permeates the air, adding to the heartbreaking scene. Residents recount the horrifying moments of the earthquake, with many describing how they pulled people from the rubble with their bare hands.
A survivor from Tinmel, Mouhamad Elhasan, tragically lost his son during the chaos. His son had fled outside during the earthquake but was struck by his neighbor’s collapsing roof. Despite Elhasan’s desperate search and cries for help, his son was found lifeless by the time he reached him. Survivors like Elhasan express their grief and guilt, wondering if staying inside their homes would have prevented such tragedies.
In Tikekhte, where few structures remain standing, residents recount numerous rescue efforts. With no tools available, they relied on their bare hands to dig through the debris, successfully pulling out 25 people, including one of Mohamed Ouchen’s own sisters. The determined spirit of the villagers is evident in the face of such devastation.
Footage captured in the remote village of Imi N’Tala reveals the extent of the destruction. Spanish rescuer Antonio Nogales, who documented the scene, struggled to find words to describe the level of devastation. Not a single house remained upright, underscoring the urgent need for rescue operations. However, despite the overwhelming destruction, Nogales and fellow search teams remain hopeful of finding survivors.
While the earthquake primarily hit remote areas in the High Atlas Mountains, the city of Marrakech also experienced significant damage. Historical buildings in the old city, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, were impacted. The iconic 12th-century Tinmel Mosque sustained major damage. Fortunately, more modern parts of Marrakech, including a site slated for IMF and World Bank meetings, were relatively unscathed.
Efforts to aid the affected regions are underway, albeit with initial delays that drew criticism from survivors. Tent camps have now been established, providing temporary shelter for those who lost their homes. The Moroccan army is reinforcing search and rescue teams, while also supplying essential resources such as drinking water, food, tents, and blankets. Relief supplies are being transported via major roads, although congestion caused by heavy vehicles and incoming volunteers is a challenge.
Several countries, including Spain, Britain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Algeria, have offered assistance and are providing rescue personnel, aid, and resources. Offers from other nations are being considered to support the ongoing relief efforts.
As Morocco grapples with the aftermath of this devastating earthquake, the country remains determined to rebuild and provide support for its affected communities. The resilience and solidarity displayed by both locals and international responders continue to provide hope amidst the tragedy.
