A Grief-Stricken Paris: Eiffel Tower Lights Dimmed in Tribute
In a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the devastating Earthquake in Morocco, the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris dimmed its lights on Saturday. This solemn gesture resonated across the globe as the world mourned the loss caused by one of the deadliest earthquakes Morocco has witnessed in decades.
The Moroccan Ministry of Interior reported that over 2000 lives have been lost, and another 1500 individuals sustain severe injuries due to this natural calamity. The earthquake, measuring 6.8 in intensity, struck approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles) southwest of the city of Marrakech, at the high-altitude region of the High Atlas Mountains.
Rising Casualties in Morocco’s Heartland
Morocco, particularly in Marrakech and its surrounding regions, has witnessed a surge in casualties due to the powerful earthquake that struck late on Friday night. The toll is expected to rise as rescue teams face challenges in reaching remote areas.
The highest number of casualties were reported in the Al Haouz province, where 1293 people lost their lives, followed by Taroudant with 452 casualties.
At least 2059 individuals have been injured, with 1404 in critical condition. The government has declared a three-day national mourning period. Friday’s earthquake, registering a magnitude of 6.8, was the most powerful to hit Northern African nations in over a century.
Stories of Survival and Hope Amidst Chaos
One resident, Rashid Ben Arabi, fled from Marrakech in his car just minutes after the earthquake struck. He immediately set off towards the city of Amizmiz, nearly 56 kilometers (35 miles) away, to ensure that his parents were safe and unharmed.
He described the roads as completely congested, with everyone fleeing the city amidst pitch darkness and intermittent power cuts.
As Rashid entered his city, he witnessed people in distress, crying, and searching desperately for their families. He recalls seeing a man trapped under the rubble of a collapsed building, hearing the cries of his two children. However, help had not yet reached the scene.
Finally, Rashid reunited with his parents, who were shaken but physically unharmed, huddled under blankets and sleeping on the street.
United Global Support for Morocco
World leaders rallied together in a unified show of support for Morocco’s earthquake-stricken communities. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the G20 Summit in Delhi, assured international assistance for Morocco.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez extended an offer of “unity and support” for the people of Morocco. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his sorrow and extended a helping hand.
American President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed their solidarity, while Russian President Vladimir Putin shared his condolences and empathy for the people of Morocco.
Assessing the Aftermath: A Painful Reality
Following a meeting with officials, the Royal Cabinet stated, “The ‘catastrophic’ earthquake has caused significant human and physical damage in several regions of the country.” This earthquake was one of the most powerful to strike a North African nation in nearly a century and the deadliest earthquake in the country since the 1960s.
The official death toll has surpassed 2000, with an additional 1400 individuals severely injured.
As the search for survivors continues, world leaders stand ready to provide extensive support for recovery efforts. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who himself experienced a devastating earthquake in February resulting in thousands of casualties, also expressed his solidarity.
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FAQ
1: What was the magnitude of the earthquake in Morocco?
- The earthquake in Morocco had a magnitude of 6.8, making it one of the most powerful to hit Northern African nations in over a century.
2: How many casualties were reported in Morocco due to the earthquake?
- The Moroccan Ministry of Interior reported that over 2000 lives have been lost, and another 1500 individuals sustain severe injuries due to this natural calamity.
3: Which regions in Morocco were most affected by the earthquake?
- The Al Haouz province witnessed the highest number of casualties, with 1293 people losing their lives. Taroudant also experienced significant casualties, with 452 reported.
4: What was the response of world leaders to the earthquake in Morocco?
- World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, French President Emmanuel Macron, American President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressed their solidarity and offered support to the people of Morocco.
5: How are the rescue and relief efforts being conducted in Morocco?
- Rescue teams are facing challenges in reaching remote areas, but they are working tirelessly to provide assistance. The government has declared a three-day national mourning period and is coordinating efforts to provide aid to those affected by the earthquake.
