Thousands Dead After Powerful Earthquake Hits Morocco

A powerful earthquake hits Morocco late Friday, killing more than 1,000 people and damaging buildings from villages in the country.

The 6.8-magnitude quake struck 72 kilometres southwest of tourist hotspot Marrakesh. Strong tremors were felt in the coastal cities of Rabar, Casablanca and Essaouira. This is considered the biggest earthquake to hit Morocco in 120years.

BBC reports says the interior ministry said the earthquake killed people in the provinces and municipalities of al-Haouz, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua and Taroudant. The historic Koutoubia Mosque, built in the 12th century, suffered a damage in the quake.

The interior ministry added that over 600 people have been injured and many people spent the night out of their home. Reports says families are trapped under the rubble of their homes.

The regional blood transfusion centre in Marrakesh has called on residents to donate blood for those injured.

World leaders offered to send aid or rescue crews to the victims. The UK authorities have promised to help Morocco ‘in whatever way” they can. Foreign Minister James Cleverly said “We stand ready to help our Moroccan friends in whatever way we can.”

United States president, Joe Biden offered his condolences and prayers for the deceased, saying his administration is in contact with Moroccan officials. In a statement released on Saturday, Biden said “I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Morocco.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by this terrible hardship. My administration is in contact with Moroccan officials. We working expeditiously to ensure American citizens in Morocco are safe and stand ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Moroccan people. The United States stands by Morocco and my friend King Mohammed VI at this difficult moment.”

The head of African Union, Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed his “sincere condolences” to the King, the Moroccan people and the families of the victims. Mahamat said “I learnt with great sadness of the tragic consequences of the earthquake that hit the kingdom of Morocco.”

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