Devastating earthquake rocks central Morocco, leaving hundreds dead

Unthinkable devastation has struck central Morocco as a formidable 6.8 magnitude earthquake razed buildings to the ground, claiming at least 296 lives and injuring more than 150 people. Felt as far away as Spain and Portugal, this disaster is nothing short of a cataclysm. Local reports are dubbing it the most powerful quake to ever hit the African nation.

Earthquake’s Epicenter and Conflicting Reports

Confusion reigns as Morocco’s geophysical centre claims a 7.2 magnitude for the quake, while the US Geological Survey maintains it was a 6.8 magnitude earthquake with a shallow depth of 18.5 km. It occurred just 44 miles southwest of the tourist mecca Marrakesh, making this nightmare all too real for both locals and visitors alike.

Havoc in Heritage Sites and Hospitals

Hospitals in Marrakesh are overwhelmed with an influx of casualties, signaling the sheer scale of this tragedy. According to indirect reports from Reuters, buildings in Marrakesh’s old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, have collapsed, and harrowing images of fallen mosque minarets and damaged cars fill local television screens.

Morocco’s deadliest earthquake: Death toll rises to 296. Photo courtesy of Nadiia Ganzhyi on Unsplash.

Government Response and Regional Impact

Morocco’s Interior Ministry broadcasted a speech where they subtly implored the public to remain calm, announcing that all available resources have been activated to tackle this horrendous catastrophe. The quake’s tremors were even felt in neighboring Algeria, which fortunately reported no damages or casualties.

Unprecedented Tragedy

Emerging reports indicate that hundreds of people were killed as buildings collapsed, literally burying them in rubble. This earthquake has not only shaken the land but also the very fabric of this nation. The devastating impact of this natural disaster will be felt for years to come.