In a heart-wrenching tragedy, Morocco was struck by a devastating earthquake late Friday night, marking it as the most powerful seismic event the country has witnessed in over a century. This natural catastrophe has left an indelible mark on the nation, with at least 296 lives tragically lost and 153 people left injured. The situation is still ongoing and labeled as the ‘Strongest earthquake in a century in the country.’
The seismic terror unfolded as the earth trembled beneath Morocco’s High Atlas mountains. The quake, initially reported at a magnitude of 6.8 by the US Geological Survey, and later at 7.2 by Morocco’s geophysical center, struck with its epicenter 71 kilometers southwest of the enchanting city of Marrakesh at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5 kilometers. The tremors resonated far and wide, sending shockwaves of panic and despair through cities and towns, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Marrakech, a city known for its rich history and UNESCO World Heritage status, bore the brunt of the earthquake’s fury. Residents spoke of buildings collapsing and ancient minarets crumbling, forever altering the skyline of this cherished city. Dalila Fahem, a local resident, expressed her terror, recounting the moments when her house shook, and her furniture was damaged. “Fortunately, I hadn’t gone to sleep yet,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many who narrowly escaped the crumbling structures.
In the nearby mountain village of Asni, near the quake’s epicenter, Montasir Itri shared the heart-wrenching account of houses damaged and neighbors trapped beneath the rubble. The community rallied together, using every available means to rescue those in need, epitomizing the spirit of solidarity during these darkest hours.
This earthquake is a painful reminder of nature’s unpredictable power. The Moroccan Interior Ministry, in its televised statement, revealed that the quake had taken its heaviest toll in mountain areas, challenging rescue efforts. In the provinces of Al-Haouz, Ouarzazate, Marrakech, Azilal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant, communities are grappling with unimaginable grief and devastation.
In Marrakech’s tightly packed old city, scenes of chaos unfolded as people worked tirelessly to clear debris with their bare hands, awaiting much-needed heavy equipment. Amidst the rubble, survivors like Id Waaziz Hassan emerged, resilient and determined to rebuild their lives.
As news of the earthquake spread, neighboring cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Imsouane also felt the earth’s violent tremors. Fearful residents rushed from their homes, fearing further catastrophe. Mohamed Taqafi from Casablanca described the experience: “The house rocked aggressively, everyone was scared,” he said. “I thought it was only my house that was moving because it’s fragile and old. I heard people screaming, everyone went out of their houses.”
This earthquake has sent shockwaves beyond Morocco’s borders. Leaders worldwide expressed their condolences, with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharing his pain at the news of the quake. Nearby Algeria felt the tremors but fortunately did not suffer damage or casualties.
This calamity also serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity. The United States Geological Survey issued an orange alert for economic losses, highlighting the significant damage likely to be incurred. It’s a testament to the resilience of the Moroccan people that they are rallying together to support their affected neighbors, with the regional blood transfusion center in Marrakesh urgently calling for blood donations.
In these challenging moments, the world stands united with Morocco, offering support and condolences. The Moroccan government, alongside rescue teams, has mobilized all necessary resources to provide assistance to the affected areas. As the nation grapples with this unprecedented disaster, the global community holds its collective breath, hoping for signs of hope amidst the heartbreak, and sending strength and solidarity to all those affected by the ‘Strongest earthquake in a century in the country.
