In a tragic turn of events, Morocco was shaken to its core as a powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck the nation late on a fateful Friday night. The repercussions of this seismic catastrophe have been devastating, with more than 600 lives lost and extensive damage to structures, particularly in the historic city of Marrakech. This earthquake, described by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) as the most powerful to hit this region of North Africa in over a century, has left the nation grappling with its aftermath.
The Tremor’s Impact The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 72 kilometers (44.7 miles) southwest of Marrakech, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and as a popular tourist destination. Striking at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5 kilometers (11.4 miles) in Morocco’s High Atlas mountain range, the quake unleashed its destructive force shortly after 11 p.m. local time.
Staggering Losses The toll of this catastrophic event is heartbreaking, with at least 632 lives tragically lost and 329 others suffering injuries, including 51 in critical condition, as reported by Morocco’s state-run TV Al Aoula, citing the nation’s Interior Ministry. The devastation has been particularly acute in mountainous areas near the epicenter, where rescue operations have encountered numerous challenges due to damaged roads.
The Desperate Search for Survivors As the nation grapples with this unprecedented disaster, many have spent anxious nights on the streets, fearing aftershocks. A heroic mission to locate and rescue those trapped beneath the rubble is underway, with health authorities urgently appealing for blood donations to aid the victims.
Unusual Strength and Ongoing Risks The USGS noted that Friday night’s earthquake was exceptionally potent for this part of Morocco. They emphasized the potential for significant damage and widespread disaster, highlighting the vulnerability of many structures in the region to seismic activity.
Aftershocks and Tremors Persist Residents have been cautioned to remain vigilant as follow-up tremors continue. The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces have issued advisories urging residents to exercise caution and take safety measures in response to the ongoing risk of aftershocks.
A Modified Historical City
Due to its characteristic red sandstone buildings, Marrakech is frequently called the “red city” and has a history dating back almost a thousand years. Millions of travellers were lured there in 2019 before the pandemic for its historic palaces, mosques, gardens, and vibrant markets. This thriving city has the scars of the earthquake, which have affected not only its cultural assets but also its inhabitants.
Influence on Old Marrakech
The hardest hit area of this natural catastrophe was the ancient city of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich culture and history. A number of city walls and buildings were tragically destroyed or severely damaged. Videos and pictures show crowded urban areas where some individuals have set up impromptu mattresses for the night.
A Nation in Mourning
This earthquake has not only shaken the physical foundations of Morocco but also the hearts of its people. As the nation mourns its losses and grapples with the extensive aftermath, the resilient spirit of Morocco shines through as communities come together to support one another in the face of this tragedy.
