In a devastating disaster, a powerful earthquake struck Morocco on the night of September 8, resulting in the tragic loss of over 800 lives, as confirmed by the interior ministry. The 6.8-magnitude quake originated southwest of Marrakesh, a popular tourist destination, causing panic and forcing residents to flee their homes during the late hours.
The earthquake's impact was not limited to Marrakesh alone, as strong tremors were also felt in the coastal cities of Rabat, Casablanca, and Essaouira. Abdelhak El Amrani, a resident of Marrakesh, shared the terrifying experience, recounting the violent tremors and the sight of buildings swaying. The suddenness of the situation caught many off guard, leaving them in shock and panic.
The earthquake led to power outages and disrupted the telephone network temporarily, plunging residents into darkness and isolation. Faisal Baddour, an engineer who experienced the quake, described the fear that gripped the people, comparing the force of the earthquake to a passing train. Many chose to spend the night outside, seeking safety from potential aftershocks.
Tragically, the updated figures from the interior ministry revealed that the earthquake had claimed the lives of at least 632 people, with a majority of the fatalities occurring in Al-Haouz and Taroudant provinces. The provinces of Ouarzazate, Chichaoua, Azilal, and Youssoufia, as well as the cities of Marrakesh, Agadir, and Casablanca, also reported deaths. Additionally, 329 individuals sustained injuries, with 51 in critical condition.
The aftermath of the earthquake left the streets in chaos, as collapsed walls and piles of rubble scattered throughout the affected areas. Witnesses, such as Michael Bizet, a French resident, described the scene as a catastrophe, with buildings destroyed and a sense of madness prevailing. Distressing videos circulated on social media, showing a minaret collapsed in Jemaa el-Fna square, a historical site. Hundreds sought refuge in the square, choosing to spend the night there, some with blankets and others on the ground.
The emotional toll on survivors was immense, as they grappled with the shock and loss. Houda Outassaf expressed his disbelief, revealing the devastating loss of multiple family members. Fayssal Badour, who was driving during the earthquake, recounted the unbearable scenes of screaming and crying he witnessed firsthand.
Authorities swiftly initiated a comprehensive response effort, mobilizing resources to aid the affected areas. The regional blood transfusion center in Marrakesh appealed for blood donations to assist the injured. However, significant damage is expected, as indicated by the USGS PAGER system's red alert for economic losses, predicting extensive damage and a widespread disaster. The earthquake's impact also caused disruptions in internet connectivity due to power cuts.
The international community expressed condolences and solidarity with Morocco during this difficult time. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered their sympathies. While the earthquake was felt in neighboring Algeria, it fortunately did not cause any damage or casualties there.
Morocco has experienced devastating earthquakes in the past, including the 2004 Al Hoceima quake, which claimed hundreds of lives, and the 1960 Agadir earthquake, which resulted in over 12,000 fatalities. The 1980 El Asnam earthquake in neighboring Algeria was one of the most destructive earthquakes in recent history, causing the loss of 2,500 lives and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless.
As Morocco begins the arduous task of recovery and reconstruction, the nation mourns the tragic loss of life caused by this catastrophic earthquake.
