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The powerful earthquake struck Morocco on Friday and snatched the lives of over 1,000 people leaving several thousand people injured, causing widespread damage and panic in Marrakech, and several other cities
The powerful earthquake that struck Morocco on Friday snatched the lives of over 1,000 people leaving several thousand people injured, causing widespread damage and panic in Marrakech, and several other cities. The epicenter of the quake, which took place at dead night, while people were inside their homes sleeping, was located in the province of Al-Haouz, southwest of the city of Marrakech. Reports indicate that many people are trapped in the debris and the number of casualties might go up. A large number of people got injured and were admitted to the overcrowded hospitals.
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More than a third of the deaths were recorded in Al-Haouz, the epicentre of the quake, and in Taroudant (271) further south. This is the most powerful earthquake to hit the kingdom to date.In addition to Marrakech, the tremor was felt in Rabat, Casablanca, Agadir, and Essaouira, causing panic among the population. Many people took to the streets of these cities, fearing that their homes would collapse. Horrifying images are being posted on social media.
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The regional blood transfusion centre in Marrakech called on residents to go to its premises to donate blood for the injured. French President Emmanuel Macron said he was shocked by the events and offered France’s help in a message. Other countries that sent their condolences included Germany, Spain, Russia, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave instructions to provide all necessary assistance to the Moroccan people. It will be sending an aid team to the area. The head of the Italian government, Giorgia Meloni, expressed Italy’s willingness to support Morocco in this emergency situation.
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Earlier, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to Morocco, while kickstarting the G20 meeting procedures. He said India was extremely saddened by the loss of lives. On 24 February 2004, an earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale shook the province of Al Hoceima, 400 km northeast of Rabat, killing 628 people. And on 29 February 1960, a magnitude 5.7 earthquake destroyed Agadir, on the country’s west coast, killing nearly 15,000 people – a third of the city’s population.
