A formidable earthquake, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, struck central Morocco late on Friday, resulting in a tragic loss of life and numerous injuries. Reports indicate that at least 820 individuals perished in the provinces near the epicenter, with an additional 300 individuals requiring hospitalization for treatment of their injuries. It is essential to note that the majority of the damage occurred in rural areas rather than urban centers, though authorities are still assessing the full extent of the devastation.
Expressing his condolences and deep sorrow over the earthquake's casualties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to the microblogging platform X (formerly Twitter) to convey his heartfelt sympathies. He stated, "Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an earthquake in Morocco. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the people of Morocco. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. India is ready to offer all possible assistance to Morocco in this difficult time."
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake initially registered at a magnitude of 6.8, striking at 11:11 p.m. (2211 GMT) with several seconds of intense shaking. Morocco's National Seismic Monitoring and Alert Network, on the other hand, recorded it as a magnitude 7 on the Richter scale. The U.S. agency also reported a magnitude-4.9 aftershock approximately 19 minutes after the initial quake.
Discrepancies in the early measurements are not uncommon, although either reading would represent one of the most powerful earthquakes Morocco has experienced in recent years. While earthquakes are relatively infrequent in North Africa, a magnitude 5.8 earthquake near Agadir in 1960 resulted in thousands of casualties.
The earthquake's epicenter was situated in the highlands of the Atlas Mountains, approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) south of Marrakech. It was also in close proximity to Toubkal, North Africa's tallest peak, and Oukaimeden, a well-known Moroccan ski resort.
As of early Saturday, Moroccan authorities and the official news agency, MAP, had not released detailed information regarding casualties or property damage. Typically, government officials utilize the agency to disseminate vital information about significant events.
The seismic event had reverberations felt as far away as Portugal and Algeria, as reported by the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere and Algeria's Civil Defense agency, which is responsible for emergency response.
Several videos, while not immediately verifiable by Reuters, surfaced on social media platforms, showing a building collapsing and debris strewn across streets. Other footage depicted people hastily evacuating shopping centers, restaurants, and residential buildings, gathering outside in apprehension of potential further tremors.
A resident of Marrakesh, Brahim Himmi, described the situation, mentioning ambulances leaving the old town and extensive damage to building facades. He noted that many people were fearful and opted to stay outdoors as a precaution against additional earthquakes.
