More than 1,300 people are dead after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Oukaïmeden, Morocco, Friday night.
The outlet also reported that the number of people injured had reached 1,832, and 1,220 of those are listed as in critical condition, according to a report from the Ministry of the Interior.
AP Photo/Mosa’ab Elshamy
Devastation remains after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit Morocco late Friday night.AP Photo/Mosa’ab Elshamy
The earthquake originated in a remote area in the High Atlas mountains southwest of Marrakech, called Oukaïmeden, according to the USGS. According toTripAdviser, Oukaïmedenis “the highest ski & transhumance resort of Morocco & Africa (also a prehistorical site containing highland pasture reserve, rock arts & local right holders shelters).”
Some of the most affected areas are “quite remote and mountainous [and] therefore hard to reach,” according to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
“The next 24 to 48 hours will be critical in terms of saving lives,” Caroline Holt, the organization’s Global Director of Operations, said in a statement.
Al Aoula reported that rescue teams are having difficulty reaching the remote areas as damage and debris has blocked off roads and access, perCNN.
A 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit Morocco on Friday night and destroyed a home near Marrakech.AP Photo/Mosa’ab Elshamy
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As for what the recovery period looks like, Dr. Hossam Elsharkawi, the IFRC’s Regional Director of the Middle East and North Africa, said in a statement that, unlike thequake that hit Turkey and Syriain February, the crisis in Morocco will take longer to address.
“We are looking at many months, if not years, of response.”
source: people.com
