A devastating earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck central Morocco, leaving at least 296 people dead and causing widespread destruction, according to an official statement from the Interior Ministry released on Saturday.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located in the High Atlas Mountains, approximately 71 kilometers southwest of the bustling city of Marrakesh. The temblor occurred at a depth of 18.5 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface, as reported by the United States Geological Survey.
Reports of damage after 6.8-magnitude earthquake hits Morocco pic.twitter.com/tQqYsosW8x— BNO News (@BNONews) September 8, 2023
The disaster struck at precisely 11:11 p.m. local time, sending shockwaves throughout the region and causing panic among residents. Videos and images circulated on social media depict people fleeing onto the streets, damaged buildings, and debris-covered roads.
Remarkably, the powerful tremors were also felt in distant cities, including the capital Rabat, situated approximately 350 kilometers away from the epicenter. Reports from Casablanca and Essaouira, both significant metropolitan areas, indicate that residents there also experienced the quake’s effects.
Dr. Ahmed El-Mansouri, the head of the National Institute of Geophysics in Morocco, described this earthquake as the most potent to have struck the nation in over a century. The impact of this seismic event has been profound, leading to significant loss of life and property damage.
Local authorities have swiftly mobilized rescue and relief efforts, with emergency responders working tirelessly to locate survivors and provide assistance to those affected. Hospitals in the affected regions have been overwhelmed with casualties, and efforts are being made to ensure that medical supplies and personnel are made available to cope with the crisis.
Government officials have also called for calm and urged citizens to adhere to safety guidelines during this critical time. Moroccan King Mohammed VI has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and has ordered all necessary resources to be made available to support the affected communities.
