A powerful earthquake measuring 6.8 in magnitude hit central Morocco late on Friday, causing buildings in nearby Marrakesh to shake and prompting residents to flee onto the streets. The extent of the damage is currently unknown.
The quake originated at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5 km (11.5 miles) and struck approximately 72 km (44 miles) southwest of Marrakesh and 56 km west of the town of Oukaimeden in the Atlas Mountains at around 11 p.m. local time (2200 GMT), as stated by the USGS.
Several videos circulating on social media, which Reuters has not yet verified, indicate the potential collapse of a building and debris strewn across the streets. People are also seen fleeing from a shopping center, restaurants, and apartment buildings, gathering outside as a precaution.
A Marrakesh resident, Brahim Himmi, observed damaged building facades and noticed ambulances coming from the old town. Many individuals remain outside, wary of subsequent quakes and feeling fearful.
Reported by Ahmed El Jechtimi in Rabat, with additional reporting by Jose Joseph in Bengaluru. Written by Rosalba O’Brien and edited by Jonathan Oatis.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
