A devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Morocco on the evening of Friday, September 9, 2024. The epicenter was located in the Atlas Mountains, about 71 kilometers southwest of Marrakesh. As of Monday, the confirmed death toll has risen to 2,497, with 2,476 people injured, many of them critically. This earthquake is the most powerful to hit Morocco in
The earthquake occurred at around 11:00 PM local time, catching many residents off guard as they slept. The tremors were felt across a large area, including major cities like Rabat, Casablanca, and Fez. In Marrakesh, the historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, suffered significant damage, with many ancient structures partially or completely destroyed.
Widespread Destruction: Billions in Damage
The material damage caused by the earthquake is estimated to be in the billions of euros. Historic landmarks, including city walls and old mosques, have been severely damaged. Many modern buildings, such as hotels and shopping centers, were also destroyed. Roads and bridges in the affected areas have been rendered impassable, complicating rescue operations and access to affected communities.
Government and International Response
The Moroccan government quickly declared a state of emergency and mobilized all available resources, including the military, to assist in rescue efforts. International aid has started to arrive, with teams from countries like France, Spain, Turkey, and the United States providing specialized search and rescue assistance.
Historical Context: Echoes of the 1960 Agadir Earthquake
This earthquake is the deadliest in Morocco since the 1960 Agadir earthquake, which claimed over 12,000 lives. Although the current earthquake had a higher magnitude, improved building standards have likely helped to reduce the number of casualties. Nevertheless, the destruction and loss of life have been immense, marking this event as one of the most tragic in Morocco’s modern history.
Challenges Ahead: Long Road to Recovery
The recovery process will be long and challenging. In addition to immediate rescue and relief efforts, there will be a significant need for rebuilding infrastructure and restoring historical sites. The Moroccan government has called for national and international solidarity to support the recovery efforts.
FFN will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the ongoing rescue operations, damage assessments, and recovery plans following this tragic event in Morocco.
