A devastating earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck central Morocco, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 296 lives, according to the country’s interior ministry.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located in the High Atlas Mountains, approximately 71 kilometers (44 miles) southwest of Marrakesh, at a depth of 18.5 kilometers, as reported by the US Geological Survey.
The earthquake occurred at 23:11 local time (22:11 GMT), followed by a 4.9 magnitude aftershock just 19 minutes later.
The casualties were reported in Marrakesh and several areas to the south, including the provinces and municipalities of al-Haouz, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant, as stated by the interior ministry.
The ministry further added that 153 individuals have been injured and are currently receiving treatment in hospitals.
Disturbing video footage circulating on social media platforms, such as X (formerly Twitter), depicts the aftermath of the earthquake, showing damaged buildings, trembling structures, and streets filled with rubble.
The authenticity and specific locations of these videos have not been independently verified.
Residents of Marrakesh’s old city reported the collapse of several buildings, with one resident informing Reuters that some structures had crumbled.
Witnesses have described scenes of panic and chaos, with people fleeing their homes and seeking safety in the streets.
Concerned about potential powerful aftershocks, locals have chosen to remain outside their residences.
Abdelhak El Amrani, a witness in the historic city, recounted experiencing a “violent tremor” and witnessing buildings swaying.
He described the scene as one of shock and panic, with distressed parents and crying children. Power and phone lines were disrupted for approximately 10 minutes following the earthquake.
Reports have also emerged of a family trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed house, while several individuals in Marrakesh have been transported to hospitals for medical attention, according to AFP.
Although the earthquake’s epicenter was situated in a remote area of the High Atlas Mountains, tremors were felt in the capital city of Rabat, located 350 kilometers away, as well as in Casablanca and Essaouira.
The impact on simple structures in mountain villages near the epicenter remains uncertain, and due to their remote locations, it may take some time to assess the full extent of the damage and casualties in those areas.
Rescue and relief efforts are currently underway, with authorities mobilizing resources to assist those affected by this tragic event.
The Moroccan government has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and has pledged to provide support to the injured and affected communities during this difficult time.