Devastating Morocco Earthquake Claims Over 2,800 Lives, Leaves Villagers Homeless
Morocco has been struck by a devastating earthquake, claiming the lives of over 2,800 people and leaving many villagers homeless. This earthquake is the country’s most severe in over a century, with a magnitude of 6.8. The quake occurred in the High Atlas Mountains and caused widespread destruction, particularly affecting the traditional mud brick houses that are so prevalent in the region.
Efforts to search for survivors have been carried out by both Moroccan teams and international search teams from Spain, Britain, and Qatar. So far, the death toll stands at 2,862, with 2,562 individuals injured. Authorities have been unable to estimate the number of missing persons due to the remote and inaccessible nature of the affected areas.
One village significantly impacted by the earthquake is Tinmel, where almost every house has been pulverized, leaving the entire community homeless. Tragically, the stench of death permeates the village, with numerous animals buried under the rubble. Mouhamad Elhasan, a resident of Tinmel, recounted the heart-wrenching experience of losing his 31-year-old son, who was trapped and died when their neighbor’s roof collapsed. Despite the desperate attempts to rescue him, his cries for help ceased before they could reach him. Many villagers throughout the affected region have resorted to using their bare hands to extract survivors trapped in the debris.
Another severely affected village, Tikekhte, witnessed the heroic efforts of its residents as they rescued 25 people, including Mohamed Ouchen’s sister. With limited tools, these brave individuals relied on their hands to dig through the rubble and pull survivors to safety. The scenes of destruction captured by Spanish rescuer Antonio Nogales in Imi N’Tala depict an absolute level of devastation, with not a single house left standing.
While historic buildings in Marrakech, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, suffered damage, the modern parts of the city and the site designated for IMF and World Bank meetings next month were largely unscathed. Authorities are determined to proceed with the meetings, which are expected to draw over 10,000 attendees.
In response to criticism about the initial slow response, the army has intensified search-and-rescue efforts and provided essential supplies, including water, food, tents, and blankets. Tent camps have been established to temporarily accommodate those displaced by the earthquake. The Moroccan government has accepted aid offers from Spain, Britain, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, with the possibility of further assistance from other nations.
As of now, rescue operations are still ongoing as teams, both local and international, continue to search for survivors. Despite the immense damage caused by the earthquake, hope remains that more survivors will be found. This tragedy has highlighted the resilience and determination of the Moroccan people, as well as the generosity and support from around the world.
The road to recovery will be long and arduous for the affected communities, but with the combined efforts of the government, international aid, and the unwavering spirit of the Moroccan people, there is a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
