When did an earthquake hit Morocco?
On 8th September 2023, Morocco experienced a powerful earthquake of 6.8 magnitude. It was the biggest earthquake in the country in over sixty years. The earthquake struck 72 kilometres southwest of Marrakesh, Morocco's fourth-largest city.
The earthquake's epicentre was in Ighil, a hilly region in Morocco's Al-Haouz province in the Atlas Mountains. The earthquake was felt in different parts of Morocco and even in some areas of Spain.
What’s the current situation in Morocco?
Many people passed away due to the earthquake. It has also caused a lot of destruction. Doctors, soldiers, and rescuers are trying hard to help people. Many people lost their homes and had to evacuate to protect themselves. The government also set up medical camps to treat the injured.
Many countries, like Spain, the USA, the United Kingdom, France, Algeria, etc., and organisations are helping Morocco. They are sending rescue teams, doctors, medicine, tents, etc., to help. India is also ready to help Morocco. The Indian embassy in Morocco has asked all Indians there to contact them for help.
What can someone do during an earthquake?
If someone is indoors during an earthquake, they must get down on the floor and hide under a piece of strong furniture. They can also crouch in a corner with their arms covering their head if there's no table or desk. One must avoid windows, glass, and other things that might break.
One must stay indoors until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. While outside, one must not move from where they are. However, they must avoid trees, buildings, streetlights, etc. While in a vehicle, one must stop and stay inside the vehicle, but not near or under buildings, trees, bridges, etc.
If someone is trapped under debris, they shouldn’t light a match. They must cover their mouth with a cloth and tap on a pipe or a wall to help rescuers locate them. One must not yell or scream unless there’s no other option, as it can cause dust inhalation. These are some things to remember in case you face an earthquake.
