Morocco Earthquake...

As the death toll exceeds 2,100, survivors struggle for food, water, and shelter


The deadliest earthquake survivors in Morocco are fighting a losing battle for food, water, and shelter after more than 60 years. Reuters stated that more than 2,100 people have already died as a result of the strong 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred late on September 8; this number may grow higher as the search for the missing goes on.

 

Many people slept outside for three nights because it is difficult for rescue workers to get the worst-affected villages in the mountainous and far-flung High Atlas highlands, where many homes have been turned to rubble.

 

State television reports that 2,122 people have died and 2,421 have been injured. Morocco has said it may accept aid proposals from foreign nations and will organize them as necessary.

 

Moroccan culture has suffered severe harm as a result of the earthquake. A 12th-century mosque's collapse has been confirmed by reports from the local media. Additionally, the UNESCO-designated old city of Marrakech has suffered damage in some areas.

 

The impact of the earthquake is made worse by the fact that many dwellings in the affected area are made of materials that are more vulnerable to damage during seismic occurrences, such as mud bricks, timber, cement, and breeze blocks. Since an estimated 12,000 people died in an earthquake in Morocco in 1960, this one is the deadliest on record.

 

Authorities in Morocco and foreign teams are both seeking to find survivors as rescue operations continue. To help with the search and rescue operations, nations like Spain, the United Kingdom, Qatar, and the United States have sent out troops and resources. We stand ready to provide any essential help to the Moroccan people, Biden said during a news conference in Hanoi, Vietnam, according to Reuters.

 

The city of Marrakech, which is famed for its historical and architectural treasures, is approximately 72 km (45 miles) southwest of the earthquake's center. For individuals impacted by the catastrophe, the Moroccan government has established a fund and is distributing aid in the form of food, water, tents, and blankets.

 

The worldwide community has also contributed support, sending rescue teams from nations including Spain, the UK, the US, and France. According to the World Health Organization, the disaster has had an impact on over 300,000 individuals.

 

King Mohammed VI of Morocco has ordered nationwide prayers for the victims at mosques, and the government has announced three days of national mourning.

 

The Brief. Sign up to receive the top stories you need to know right now.