Morocco is reeling in the aftermath of its deadliest earthquake in over six decades, as survivors in the High Atlas mountains grapple with the desperate need for basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter. The powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck late on September 8, leaving in its wake a trail of devastation and heartache. The death toll has already surpassed 2,100 people, and the number may rise further as rescue efforts continue, according to reports from Reuters.
Many residents have spent three harrowing nights exposed to the elements, unable to access relief due to the challenging terrain in the worst-affected areas of the remote High Atlas mountains. Here, countless homes have been reduced to rubble, making access difficult for relief workers and volunteers.
Morocco’s state TV reports that the current death toll stands at 2,122, with an additional 2,421 people injured. In response to the crisis, Morocco is considering offers of aid from other nations and will coordinate relief efforts accordingly.
The earthquake has not only claimed lives but also wreaked havoc on Morocco’s cultural heritage. Local media has confirmed the collapse of a historically significant 12th-century mosque, and parts of Marrakech’s old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, have sustained damage.
The vulnerability of many homes in the affected region, constructed from materials such as mud bricks, timber, cement, and breeze blocks, has exacerbated the earthquake’s impact. This tragedy marks Morocco’s deadliest earthquake since 1960 when an estimated 12,000 lives were lost.
Rescue operations are in full swing, with Moroccan authorities and international teams working tirelessly to locate survivors. Countries including Spain, the United Kingdom, Qatar, and the United States have dispatched search-and-rescue teams and resources to assist in the recovery efforts. In a statement from Hanoi, Vietnam, President Biden expressed solidarity, saying, “We stand ready to provide any necessary assistance to the Moroccan people,” as reported by Reuters.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located 72 km (45 miles) southwest of Marrakech, a city renowned for its historical and architectural treasures. The Moroccan government has established a relief fund for those affected by the disaster and is distributing vital supplies such as water, food, tents, and blankets to the affected areas.
The international community has also rallied to support Morocco in its time of need, with nations such as Spain, the UK, the US, and France sending rescue teams and resources. The World Health Organization reports that more than 300,000 people have been affected by the disaster.
In response to the tragedy, Morocco has declared three days of mourning, and King Mohammed VI has called for prayers for the victims at mosques throughout the country.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this catastrophic event, the focus remains on providing urgent aid to survivors and restoring the shattered communities in the High Atlas mountains, while the world extends its hand in solidarity and support to Morocco in this time of crisis.
(With inputs from Reuters)
