Morocco earthquake kills at least 632 people, India offers all possible assistance

A powerful earthquake has struck Morocco late Friday night which killed at least 632 people and injured at least 329 people, the government said. This is more than double of what was previously shared and previously estimated by the interior minister. Videos and photos went viral which showed buildings reduced to rubble and dust and also showed parts of the red walls surrounding the historic city of Marrakesh, which is a UNESCO world heritage site as damaged. Videos shot by tourists showed people shouting and running away.

The earthquake hit 44 miles (71 kilometres) southwest of Marrakesh at a depth of 18.5 kilometres at 11:11 pm (2211 GMT), the US Geological Survey said. The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake had a preliminary magnitude of 6.8 when it hit at 11:11 p.m. (2211 GMT), with shaking that lasted several seconds. Morocco’s National Seismic Monitoring and Alert Network measured it at 7 on the Richter scale while the US agency reported a magnitude 4.9 aftershock hit 19 minutes later.

The interior ministry said authorities have “mobilised all the necessary resources to intervene and help the affected areas” and hospitals in Marrakesh reportedly saw a “massive influx” of injured people. The regional blood transfusion centre has also called on people to donate as much blood as possible for those who are injured.

Strongest earthquake in Morocco

While, there can be some differences in the readings of earthquakes, however, even if we hold into account any reading, this is the strongest earthquake in Morocco in many years as earthquakes are relatively rare in Northern Africa. Back in 1960, a magnitude 5.8 tremor struck near Agadir and had caused thousands of deaths.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and offered any possible assistance. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an earthquake in Morocco. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the people of Morocco. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. India is ready to offer all possible assistance to Morocco in this difficult time.”

PM Modi at the G20 Summit also said,”Before we start the proceedings of G20, I want to express my condolences over the loss of lives due to an earthquake in Morocco. We pray that all injured recover at the earliest. India is ready to offer all possible assistance to Morocco in this difficult time.” Other world leaders have also offered condolences and expressed grief over the earthquake.

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