The Latest Information on the Earthquake in Morocco

A devastating earthquake has struck Morocco, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries. The earthquake, measuring 6.8, hit central Morocco, with the epicenter located in a sparsely-populated area of the High Atlas Mountains, southwest of the city of Marrakesh. The tragedy has claimed the lives of over 1,000 people, leaving more than 1,200 injured. There are concerns that entire villages may have been leveled by the quake. An aftershock measuring 4.9 occurred 19 minutes after the initial earthquake. The affected regions include Marrakesh, al-Haouz, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant. Reports indicate that people may still be trapped in the wreckage, such as a family in the town of Al-Haouz near the epicenter. The damage is extensive, with many buildings in Marrakech destroyed or damaged, including parts of the historic Medina. Efforts are underway to locate and rescue survivors, but it may take time to determine the full extent of the casualties, particularly in remote mountain villages. International leaders, including US President Joe Biden, UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, French President Emmanuel Macron, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, India's Narendra Modi, and Russia's Vladimir Putin, have expressed their condolences and offered support to Morocco. The international community is ready to provide assistance to the affected region.