Morocco Earthquake: Death Toll Surpasses 1,000, Over 700 in Critical Condition
The Interior Ministry of Morocco confirmed on Saturday morning that the death toll from the devastating earthquake had risen to at least 1,037, with over 1,200 individuals sustaining injuries.
Most of the fatalities occurred in the popular tourist city of Marrakech and five provinces near the epicenter of the quake. The earthquake, considered the strongest in 120 years to hit the North African country, sent panic-stricken residents into the streets, as videos and photos circulated showing the shock and disbelief of those awakened by the tremors. Morocco's historical cities, known for their stone and masonry structures, suffered extensive damage due to their vulnerability to earthquakes.
In a show of solidarity, Algeria, which had severed ties with Morocco the previous year, announced that it would open its airspace for humanitarian and medical flights to and from earthquake-affected areas in Morocco. The Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its condolences to the Moroccan people for the earthquake victims.
Out of the reported injuries, 721 individuals are in critical condition, as per the interior ministry's statement. It was also noted that more than half of the casualties occurred in the epicenter, Al-Haouz, and Taroudant provinces.
In response to the disaster, Morocco's King Mohammed VI instructed the armed forces to mobilize air and land assets, specialized search and rescue teams, and a surgical field hospital.
Furthermore, Pope Francis conveyed his support and solidarity with the people of Morocco, expressing deep sympathy for those affected by the tragedy in a telegram sent by the Vatican's Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin. (News Source: Hindustan Times)
No comments