Epicenter Village Describes the Devastation

Survivors of Morocco’s deadliest earthquake in over six decades are facing challenges in finding basic necessities such as food and water. The 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit late on Friday, causing more than 2,000 deaths and leaving many villages in the High Atlas mountain range severely affected.

In Moulay Brahim, a village near the epicenter, residents had to dig out the dead from the rubble using their bare hands. With no access to food, water, and electricity, the villagers expressed frustration at the lack of aid from the government.

Some aid efforts were underway, with food donations coming from friends and family. Makeshift tents had been set up on a soccer pitch, where residents spent the night wrapped in blankets. One resident salvaging his belongings believed that others were still trapped under the rubble.

The Moroccan government has announced urgent measures to address the disaster, including strengthening search and rescue teams, providing drinking water, and distributing food, tents, and blankets. Spain and France have also offered assistance, with Spain sending search and rescue teams.

Turkey, which experienced earthquakes earlier this year resulting in over 50,000 casualties, has also offered its aid.

According to the latest figures from the Interior Ministry, the death toll currently stands at 2,012, with 2,059 individuals injured. More than 300,000 people have been affected by the disaster, according to the World Health Organization.

Efforts to rescue people trapped under the rubble have been hindered by blocked roads, including the road connecting Marrakech to Moulay Brahim. Families are anxiously waiting for news of their missing loved ones.

Morocco has declared three days of mourning, and King Mohammed VI has requested prayers at mosques nationwide.

Among the worst-hit villages is Tansghart in the Ansi area, where houses on the hillside are cracked open or missing parts of their structure. Marrakech’s old quarter has also suffered extensive damage.

Marrakech, known for its historic attractions, is set to host the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank from October 9. However, the focus at this time is on providing support to the people of Morocco and dealing with the aftermath of the earthquake.

This earthquake marks the deadliest in Morocco since 1960, where an estimated 12,000 people lost their lives, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey.