At least 2,500 people have been confirmed dead Following a 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Central Morocco on Friday, September 2023 night.
According to the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, another 2,476 were injured in the quake, as of 10 a.m. local time on Monday.
At the same time, rescue operations are underway, in a race against time to save those trapped under the rubble.
The horror quake hit Marrakesh, a popular city in the North African country, sending thousands into panic as they scampered for safety.
Untold damage
According to reports, the earthquake destroyed the Marrakesh historical walls.
Eyewitnesses said that the home areas and some towns have been destroyed completely.
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“The roads have been destroyed making it hard to get help for some of the hardest hit regions,” a Moroccan government official told CNN.
Messages from world leaders
Several world leaders sent their condolences and offered support to the country.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Morocco. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by this terrible hardship,” read part of Joe Bidens message to Morocco.
“We are working expeditiously to ensure American citizens in Morocco are safe and stand ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Moroccan people,” he added.
Kenyans in Morocco
In his message, President Ruto said, “Kenya stands with the people of Morocco as they deal with the devastating effects of the earthquake that struck their nation.”
Additionally, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba on Saturday while sharing his condolences to the country confirmed the safety of the Kenyan team that was in Morrocco for games.
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“Following the tragic earthquake in Morocco yesterday, we are pleased to confirm the whole of Judo team Kenya are all safe and travelling back tomorrow.” Read part of his message.
Morocco’s government said it has activated all available resources to tackle the disaster and has urged people to ‘avoid panic’.
Even with the assurance from the government, some of the survivors from Marrakesh have refused to go back to their villages.
Besides, the Moroccan government declared a three-day national mourning on September 9, 2023.
Massive burials are happening for those who lost in the earthquake.