Moroccan Earthquake Claims 2,500 Lives
Morocco’s most powerful earthquake in history has already taken the lives of 2,497 individuals and inflicted injuries on thousands, with foreign rescue teams joining the race against time to locate survivors beneath the debris of flattened mountain villages.
Terrifying Moments Captured
Chilling footage captures the horror as violent tremors struck Marrakech, leaving residents fleeing for their lives as buildings crumbled around them. The 6.8 magnitude quake, which occurred on Friday, resulted in the destruction of homes and historic structures.
Impact on Population
The United Nations estimates that approximately 300,000 people were affected by the earthquake, many of whom have been left homeless and forced to sleep on the streets of Marrakech due to fear of aftershocks. The catastrophe has disrupted the lives of countless individuals.
Dramatic Moments
CCTV footage reveals the moment violent tremors shook a Marrakech street, causing panic as people fled collapsing buildings. Another dramatic video captured a wedding party in Marrakech, where the singer and musicians abandoned the stage as the quake struck.
Historic City Affected
The earthquake caused significant damage to parts of Marrakech’s historic city, including its UNESCO World Heritage site, which dates back to the 12th century. This iconic city, known for its palaces, spice markets, and vibrant squares, now faces a challenging recovery.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Rescue teams are facing a race against time to locate survivors in remote villages, particularly in the High Atlas mountain range. Many houses have crumbled, and relief workers are dealing with the daunting task of reaching these isolated areas.
Humanitarian Crisis
Survivors in affected regions are struggling to find basic necessities like food, water, and shelter. The earthquake’s impact on the population is causing a growing humanitarian crisis.
International Aid Offered
Morocco has accepted aid offers from several nations, including Spain, Britain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, to send search and rescue teams. Foreign teams are coordinating their efforts with Moroccan authorities to provide assistance in this dire situation.
Long-Term Recovery
The Red Cross has cautioned that repairing the extensive damage caused by the earthquake will be a long-term endeavor, possibly taking months or even years. The earthquake is the deadliest in Morocco since the 1960 Agadir earthquake, which claimed over 12,000 lives.
National Mourning
In response to the disaster, Morocco has declared three days of national mourning. The nation is grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event, while tourists and locals recount their harrowing experiences during the quake.
Global Solidarity
The international community has expressed solidarity with Morocco in the wake of this catastrophe. The United Nations Human Rights Council observed a minute of silence for the earthquake victims, highlighting the global unity in times of crisis.