Last Friday, a powerful earthquake struck Morocco, affecting about 100,000 children, according to the UN Children's Agency (UNICEF). This blog post will provide you with an overview of the situation and its impact on the country.
The Impact on Children
While the exact number of children killed and injured is still unknown, recent estimates suggest that children make up almost one-third of Morocco's population. This means that a significant number of children have been affected by the earthquake.
The Scale of the Disaster
The earthquake, measuring 6.8 magnitude, has impacted over 300,000 people in Marrakech and the High Atlas Mountains, according to the United Nations. Tragically, more than 2,800 people, including children, have lost their lives, and thousands more have been injured. These numbers are expected to rise as authorities continue their rescue efforts.
The Earthquake Details
The earthquake struck just after 11 p.m. local time (2200GMT) with its epicenter located 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) southwest of Marrakech. It had a depth of 18.5 kilometers (11.5 miles), according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
Destruction in Marrakech
Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has suffered massive damage from the earthquake. Buildings have collapsed, leaving people trapped under the rubble. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to find and save those who are still missing.
International Aid and Support
Several foreign rescue teams from countries like Spain, the UK, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have arrived in Morocco to assist with the rescue efforts. The Moroccan government has also set up a special account to receive donations for the victims of the earthquake.
The Severity of the Earthquake
According to Morocco's National Geophysical Institute, this earthquake is the strongest to hit the country in the last century. Its impact has been devastating, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
The earthquake in Morocco has had a significant impact on children and the entire population. As rescue efforts continue, it is crucial for the international community to come together and support the affected people in their time of need.
