Marrakech, Morocco - September 9, 2023
In a tragic turn of events, Morocco has been rocked by a powerful earthquake that has claimed the lives of over 630 people and caused significant damage to buildings and landmarks. The earthquake, which struck late Friday night in the High Atlas mountain region, sent shockwaves through the country, leaving devastation in its wake.
What Happened:
Late on Friday night, Morocco experienced a rare and powerful earthquake that wreaked havoc across the country. Reports of extensive property damage have poured in from villages in the Atlas Mountains to the historic city of Marrakech. Among the casualties, the renowned 12th century Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, one of the city's most cherished landmarks, suffered damage, although the full extent of the damage remains unclear.
Casualties and Injuries:
According to Morocco's Interior Ministry, the earthquake has tragically claimed the lives of at least 632 people, with the majority of casualties reported in Marrakech and five provinces near the earthquake's epicenter. Additionally, 329 people have been reported injured. These numbers are expected to rise as rescue efforts continue, especially in remote areas.
International Response:
Prime Ministers of many countries extended heartfelt condolences to Morocco and offered "all possible assistance" in a tweet on Saturday morning. World leaders expressed deep sorrow for the loss of lives and the suffering caused by the earthquake. His message of solidarity resonated with the people of Morocco during this challenging time.
Understanding the Earthquake:
Experts explain that earthquakes originating deep within the Earth's crust tend to have a wider impact as they approach the surface. This is due to the fact that the energy carried by an earthquake declines with depth, but its sphere of influence increases, especially in regions with solid rock conducive to wave propagation. Ajay Paul, a scientist from the Dehradun-based Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, shed light on the geological factors contributing to the earthquake's far-reaching impact.
As Morocco grapples with the aftermath of this devastating earthquake, the nation, along with international assistance, is working tirelessly to provide relief to those affected. The focus remains on rescuing survivors, attending to the injured, and assessing the full extent of the damage, including the status of the historic Koutoubia Mosque.
The tragic events of September 9, 2023, will leave a lasting mark on Morocco, as the nation rallies together in the face of adversity, and the world extends its support to aid in the recovery efforts.
No comments:
Post a Comment