At Least 1,300 People Killed, Many Injured In Morocco Earthquake

Earthquake Damage Updates

Today an earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.8, hit Morocco. This is the largest earthquake to strike the country in over 120 years. As of right now, the death toll has reached at least 1,305 people, and there have been at least 1,832 people found injured, 1,220 of whom are in critical condition.” These numbers are expected to grow as search and rescue continues.

The earthquake was focused around central Morocco so, right now, search and rescue efforts are taking place in the city of Marrakesh.

Earthquake Reactions

The country’s Royal Palace has issued a statement declaring three days of mourning, with flags to be flown at half-staff on all public buildings.

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has given orders to set up “an inter-ministerial commission responsible for deploying a relief program, emergency rehabilitation and assistance in the reconstruction of destroyed housing in disaster areas, as soon as possible.”

Other world leaders are also offering their condolences and resources to the country. United States President Joe Biden said he is “deeply saddened,” and is “working expeditiously to ensure American citizens in Morocco are safe, and stand ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Moroccan people.”

French President Emmanuel Macron posted to X (Twitter): “We are all devastated by the terrible earthquake in Morocco. France is ready to help with the rescue efforts.”

Pope Francis expressed “profound solidarity” to those affected by the earthquake.

Russia’s Vladimir Putin addressed Morocco’s king: “Russia shares the experiences and grief of the friendly people of Morocco.”

We will keep you updated as more news comes in.

Published by HOLR Magazine