Rabat
A devastating earthquake struck Morocco late Friday night, resulting in the loss of nearly 300 lives and significant damage to buildings and historic landmarks in major cities. The earthquake, with a preliminary magnitude of 6.8, sent shockwaves of panic throughout the nation.
The immediate response from emergency services and the international community is crucial to providing relief and support to those affected. As Morocco begins its recovery process, it is essential to learn from this tragedy and implement measures to enhance preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
The earthquake and its destructive force
The earthquake struck Morocco at approximately 11:11 p.m. local time, with its epicentre located 72 kilometres northeast of Marrakesh. According to the US Geological Survey, the quake had a preliminary magnitude of 6.8, while Morocco’s National Seismic Monitoring and Alert Network measured it at 7 on the Richter scale. The tremors lasted for several seconds, causing widespread destruction.
Loss of life and extent of damage
Tragically, the earthquake claimed the lives of at least 296 people, according to the latest report from Morocco’s Interior Ministry. Additionally, 153 individuals sustained injuries and required hospitalization. The full extent of the damages is yet to be determined, as reports on casualties and destruction continue to emerge. Videos shared on social media depict the collapse of buildings and the crumbling of the iconic red walls that surround the old city of Marrakech, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Panic and chaos in major cities
The sudden and powerful earthquake unleashed chaos and panic among the population. People rushed out onto the streets, fearing aftershocks and the potential collapse of their homes. Restaurants in Marrakech were evacuated, with tourists and locals alike capturing the scenes on their mobile phones. The deafening sound of club music served as a backdrop to the frantic evacuation efforts.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
Following the earthquake, rescue and recovery efforts were immediately mobilized. Emergency services worked tirelessly to search for survivors and provide assistance to the injured. However, the difficult terrain and the darkness of the night posed significant challenges to these operations. It is expected that the death toll will rise as more information becomes available.
Historical Significance and Cultural Impact
The earthquake’s impact on historical landmarks and cultural sites adds to the tragedy. The famous red walls that surround the old city of Marrakech suffered significant damage, threatening the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The loss of cultural heritage further compounds the emotional toll on the people of Morocco.
International Response and Assistance
News of the earthquake quickly spread beyond Morocco’s borders, prompting international concern and offers of assistance. Portugal and Algeria reported feeling the tremors, highlighting the widespread impact of the earthquake. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere and Algeria’s Civil Defense Agency have been monitoring the situation and coordinating emergency response efforts.
Lessons from Past Earthquakes
While earthquakes are relatively rare in North Africa, Morocco has experienced devastating tremors in the past. The 1960 earthquake near Agadir, with a magnitude of 5.8, resulted in thousands of deaths. The current earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the need for preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
The Way Forward
As Morocco grapples with the aftermath of this powerful earthquake, the government and international organizations need to collaborate in providing support to affected communities. Immediate attention must be given to medical aid, temporary shelter, and the restoration of essential services. Long-term efforts should focus on rebuilding infrastructure and implementing measures to mitigate the impact of future earthquakes.
