Devastating Earthquake Claims Over 2,000 Lives in Morocco
Tragedy struck Morocco as a catastrophic earthquake, measuring 6.8 in magnitude, wreaked havoc southwest of Marrakesh, resulting in a confirmed death toll of over 2,000 individuals. The horrifying incident occurred on Friday night, leaving a trail of destruction and widespread suffering in its wake.
Casualty Figures and Injuries
Morocco’s Interior Ministry reported that the earthquake claimed the lives of at least 2,012 people, while an additional 2,059 individuals suffered injuries, with 1,404 of them in critical condition. The scale of the disaster is staggering, with a significant impact on the region’s population.
Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds
The World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Marrakech and its surrounding areas, where over 300,000 people have been affected by the earthquake’s devastating consequences. The disaster has left communities in dire need of assistance.
International Support and Solidarity
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly expressed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting its nationals in the affected region. He stated that the UK stands ready to assist Morocco in any way possible, emphasizing solidarity and cooperation during this challenging time.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak extended his condolences to those affected by the earthquake, reiterating the UK’s readiness to provide support to their Moroccan friends.
Rescue Efforts and National Mourning
In the aftermath of the earthquake, communities and neighbors embarked on search and rescue missions to find survivors buried in the debris. Houses made of mud brick, stone, and rough wood were shattered, and mosque minarets toppled by the powerful quake.
In Amizmiz village, close to the epicenter, rescue teams tirelessly combed through rubble using their bare hands. The narrow streets were obstructed by fallen masonry, and around a hospital, grieving relatives gathered as around 10 bodies lay covered in blankets.
Moroccan Response and National Mourning
Morocco declared a period of three days for national mourning, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast across the country, according to the royal court’s announcement on Saturday. The nation is mourning the immense loss of life and the devastation wrought by the earthquake.
The Moroccan armed forces have mobilized rescue teams to provide affected areas with essential relief, including clean drinking water, food supplies, tents, and blankets. The response efforts aim to alleviate the suffering of survivors and address their immediate needs.
International Solidarity and Assistance
Turkey, which experienced its own devastating earthquakes earlier in the year, resulting in significant casualties, expressed solidarity and offered support to Morocco during this challenging time. Algeria, despite tensions with Morocco over the Western Sahara conflict, announced the opening of its airspace for humanitarian and medical flights to aid in relief efforts.
World News