A powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck central Morocco, sending shockwaves through the region and causing widespread devastation.
According to the country's interior ministry, the earthquake has claimed the lives of at least 820 people.
The United States Geological Survey reported that the epicenter of the quake was located in the High Atlas Mountains, approximately 71 kilometers (44 miles) southwest of Marrakesh, at a depth of 18.5 kilometers.
The quake occurred at 23:11 local time (22:11 GMT) on Friday, followed by a 4.9 magnitude aftershock just 19 minutes later.
The earthquake's impact extended beyond its epicenter, affecting areas in and around Marrakesh, and leading to significant casualties and destruction.
Tragically, many victims are believed to be in remote and inaccessible regions, complicating rescue and relief efforts.
The interior ministry confirmed that the earthquake resulted in casualties in several provinces and municipalities, including al-Haouz, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant.
Over 600 individuals have been reported injured, further straining local medical resources. In response to the seismic activity, the Moroccan government issued warnings, urging residents not to return to their homes due to the risk of severe aftershocks.
As a result, numerous people spent the night outdoors, seeking safety and shelter. Hospitals in Marrakesh have been inundated with injured individuals, prompting authorities to appeal for blood donations.
Reports have also emerged of families trapped under the rubble of their homes in Marrakesh, with damage observed in parts of the historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Some eyewitnesses described the horrifying experience of witnessing buildings collapsing, while others reported a pervasive sense of panic and distress.
The earthquake's epicenter, located in a remote area of the High Atlas Mountains, experienced a relatively shallow quake, intensifying its impact on the surrounding region.
Reports indicate that tremors were felt as far away as the capital, Rabat, approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) from the epicenter, as well as in cities like Casablanca and Essaouira.
Simple buildings in mountain villages near the epicenter may have been unable to withstand the force of the earthquake, further complicating the assessment of casualties in these remote areas.