Eyewitness Accounts of the Devastating Earthquake Chaos

A powerful earthquake struck Morocco at night, causing widespread panic and leading many people to flee their homes. The earthquake, measuring 6.8 magnitude, was followed by an aftershock of 4.9 magnitude just 19 minutes later. The death toll currently stands at over 1,000 according to state media, but the exact number of fatalities is still unknown. Although the epicenter was in the High Atlas Mountains, many people died in Marrakesh, located 44 miles away. Witnesses described feeling violent tremors and seeing buildings moving during the earthquake. Chaos and devastation ensued, with people crying, screaming, and fleeing their homes. Residents were warned not to return to their houses due to the risk of further earthquakes. Rescue efforts are underway to help those trapped in collapsed buildings. The earthquake caused significant damage to numerous buildings, including traditional Moroccan houses. Marrakesh, a popular tourist destination, attracts thousands of visitors each year, some of whom witnessed and experienced the quake. The full impact and scale of the disaster are still being assessed.