Moroccans sleep on the streets as the death toll from the earthquake reaches 2,000

 


Late Friday, a massive earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale slammed central Morocco, causing major destruction and wounding countless people. The epicenter of the earthquake was located in the High Atlas Mountains, some 71 kilometers southwest of the UNESCO-protected ancient city of Marrakesh.

The dead toll from the earthquake has now topped 2,000 people, with the interior ministry expressing concern for over 1,400 individuals who have suffered significant injuries. In response to this tragic event, King Mohammed VI has declared three days of national mourning, during which all public buildings' flags would be kept at half-mast.

In order to assist survivors, the king has issued directives requiring the supply of shelter, food, and other needs. The greatest impact has been noticed in the districts immediately south of Marrakesh, a well-known city with UNESCO World Heritage status that attracts a large number of tourists.

The earthquake that hit Morocco on Friday was the deadliest since the one that struck Agadir in 1960, killing nearly 12,000 people. The Moroccan military has been ordered to aid rescue teams, and many Moroccans are donating blood to help those in need.

Some folks are still concerned about earthquakes and have spent another night outside. Despite the fact that the epicenter of the quake was near Marrakesh, the shaking was felt in Rabat, Morocco's capital city, which is 350 kilometers away, as well as Agadir, Casablanca, and Essaouira.

According to the interior ministry, the province of Al Haouz has recorded the highest number of deaths from the earthquake, followed by Taroudant province. While there have been fewer deaths in Marrakesh, the old city has suffered extensive damage.

Many small buildings in mountain communities consisting of mud bricks, stones, and wood were reported to have collapsed as a result of the earthquake. However, authorities may need some time to correctly evaluate the extent of damage in remote areas. This earthquake is also the most powerful that Morocco has seen in over a century.

Algeria, a neighboring country, was also affected by the earthquake. Despite recent tensions between Algeria and Morocco, Algeria allowed humanitarian flights to assist those in need. Moreover, the UN has promised to aid Morocco in their rescue attempts.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the G20 Summit on Saturday that the world community is ready to help Morocco during this difficult time. Several other countries have expressed their support, including France, Spain, and Israel.












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