5.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern Morocco, No Casualties Reported
A 5.4 magnitude earthquake hit Ksar El Kebir, Morocco, on February 10, causing residents across major cities to evacuate. Nasser Jebour confirmed no casualties have occurred. This follows a devastating 7.0 earthquake in September that killed over 3,000 people, prompting a significant recovery plan from the government to enhance earthquake resistance.
On February 10, a 5.4 magnitude earthquake struck near Ksar El Kebir in northern Morocco. Nasser Jebour, head of the National Institute of Geophysics, confirmed that the tremor occurred in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima province, affecting residents in major cities such as Rabat, Casablanca, Fez, and Marrakech. No casualties or significant damages have been reported as of now.
Social media outlets featured videos showing people evacuating their homes in fear following the tremor. This earthquake comes months after a devastating 7.0 magnitude quake that hit Al-Haouz province on September 8, 2023, which resulted in over 3,000 fatalities and left 5,000 individuals homeless.
In response to the previous earthquake, King Mohammed VI initiated a recovery plan, allocating MAD 120 billion (approximately $11.6 billion) to be implemented over five years. The government has also passed new regulations aimed at improving earthquake resistance in construction, particularly in regions vulnerable to seismic activity. Moroccans have actively participated in solidarity campaigns, providing donations and assistance to those impacted by the earlier disaster.
The recent 5.4 magnitude earthquake in northern Morocco highlights the ongoing seismic risks in the region. While there were no immediate casualties reported, the previous September quake serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of such natural disasters. The Moroccan government is taking proactive measures to improve earthquake preparedness and response, demonstrating commitment to safeguarding its citizens.
Original Source: moroccoworldnews.com
