Marrakech, Morocco, has been gripped by the aftermath of a powerful earthquake that struck the region, leaving a significant number of people homeless and mourning the loss of loved ones. Many have resorted to sleeping on makeshift beds and in tents along the streets out of fear of further tremors, while others have lost their homes due to the recent seismic event. The earthquake, which seismologists have described as the most powerful to hit Morocco in a century, has resulted in a substantial loss of life and injuries. As of Saturday evening, authorities have reported over 2,000 deaths and a similar number of injuries, with the expectation that the death toll may continue to climb.

Local residents, facing dire conditions in the hardest-hit villages, have been tirelessly coordinating impromptu rescue efforts. In some areas, survivors are believed to be trapped beneath the rubble of collapsed buildings, making the next 24 to 48 hours crucial for their survival. Heavy machinery will be required to clear debris in these mountain villages, according to Caroline Holt, the operations director from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

BBC journalists who were among the first foreign correspondents on the scene described scenes of devastation and despair in the Greater Atlas Mountains region. The earthquake has taken a heavy toll on both rural and urban areas. The historic city of Marrakech, known for its ancient landmarks, was particularly hard-hit, with significant damage reported to the 12th-century Kutubiya mosque and other structures. While the Kutubiya mosque withstood the tremor, another mosque in the old city saw its minaret brought down.

King Muhammad VI of Morocco declared three days of national mourning in response to the disaster. Politicians from around the world have expressed their condolences to the Moroccan people, both through social media networks and official statements. Many countries, including the Czech Republic, have offered their readiness to deploy rescue teams or provide humanitarian assistance, pending an official request from the Moroccan government.

The earthquake has underscored the urgent need for immediate relief efforts and support to help the affected communities in Morocco recover from this devastating natural disaster.

Article by Prague Forum