Tragic Update: Devastating Earthquake Near Marrakech Claims Lives of at Least 1,037 Moroccan People
Rabat, 9th September 2023: Morocco’s government has reported a heartbreaking toll from the powerful earthquake, with 1,000 lives lost and 329 people injured. This update represents a significant increase from the earlier casualty figures. Moroccan citizens have shared harrowing videos depicting buildings reduced to rubble and dust, along with damage to sections of the iconic red walls surrounding the historic city of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
According to the US Geological Survey, the initial earthquake had a preliminary magnitude of 6.8 and struck at 11:11 pm, causing several seconds of intense shaking. Morocco’s National Seismic Monitoring and Alert Network, on the other hand, recorded it as a 7 on the Richter scale. Additionally, the US agency reported a magnitude 4.9 aftershock occurring 19 minutes later.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located high in the Atlas Mountains, approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) south of Marrakech. It was in proximity to Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, and Oukaimeden, a well-known Moroccan ski resort. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other global leaders, has expressed their solidarity with Morocco and their commitment to providing any necessary assistance during this challenging time.
France has announced its readiness to promptly extend assistance for rescue and aid to the populations impacted by this devastating tragedy. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also confirmed that Germany is mobilizing its technical relief agency and is committed to doing everything possible to provide assistance to those in need. The AFCON (African Cup of Nations) qualifier match between Morocco and Liberia has been postponed due to the recent earthquake in the region. The decision to postpone the match was made in light of the earthquake’s impact on the affected area.
