Powerful Earthquake Strikes Morocco, Causing Devastation in Marrakech
Magnitude 6.8 Earthquake Hits Morocco’s High Atlas Mountain Range
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Morocco on Friday night, resulting in the death of over 600 people and significant damage to buildings in the historic city of Marrakech. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that this was the strongest tremor to hit this region in over a century.
Epicenter and Depth
The earthquake struck at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5 kilometers (11.4 miles) in Morocco’s High Atlas mountain range. The epicenter was located approximately 72 kilometers (44.7 miles) southwest of Marrakech, a popular tourist destination with a population of about 840,000 people.
Devastation and Casualties
The earthquake resulted in the tragic loss of at least 632 lives, with 329 others being wounded, including 51 in critical condition. Many individuals spent the night on the streets in various cities, fearing aftershocks. Rescue efforts were initiated to locate those trapped in the rubble, while health authorities called for blood donations to assist the victims. The majority of casualties occurred in the mountain areas near the epicenter, which were challenging to reach due to damaged roads.
Unprecedented Strength and Vulnerability
The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces urged residents to remain cautious and prepared for possible aftershocks. The USGS stated that earthquakes of this magnitude in the region are uncommon but not unexpected. However, the vulnerability of structures to earthquake shaking remains a concern. The USGS highlighted the likelihood of significant damage and a potentially widespread disaster, particularly due to the presence of many vulnerable structures in the affected area.
Impact on Marrakech and Surrounding Areas
The historic city of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was severely impacted by the earthquake. Multiple buildings near the epicenter collapsed, and city walls were damaged and partially collapsed. Marrakech residents were injured, and some houses collapsed. The city’s iconic red walls, dating back to the 12th century, also crumbled in certain areas.
Resilience of Marrakech Residents
Despite the chaos and destruction, Marrakech residents showed remarkable resilience. During the earthquake, people remained calm as they evacuated narrow alleyways and found safe places outdoors. However, panic ensued when the extent of injuries became apparent. Emergency services faced challenges, with one ambulance being unable to accommodate all the injured individuals. Residents set up makeshift beds in open spaces, displaying a sense of community solidarity.
Marrakech’s Historical Significance and Tourism
Marrakech, known as the “red city” due to its red sandstone buildings, has a rich history that spans nearly 1,000 years. It is home to medieval-era palaces, mosques, gardens, and bustling markets. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Marrakech attracted nearly three million tourists in 2019, contributing to its economic significance as Morocco’s fourth-largest city and a major economic center.
Impact Beyond Marrakech
The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Marrakech, with shaking felt in the capital city of Rabat, located about 350 kilometers (217 miles) north of the High Atlas mountains.
Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-09-09 06:53:00
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