A powerful earthquake in Morocco has killed more than 800 people, government says

 

 According to the Moroccan government, a powerful earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale hit the country's north-eastern Rif region on Saturday, September 9, 2023. The earthquake struck at 11:55 p.m. local time (21:55 UTC) and was felt in several other countries in the region, including Algeria, Tunisia, and Spain.

The earthquake caused widespread damage in the affected areas, including the towns of Al Hoceima, Imzouren, and Nador. More than 800 people have been killed and over 1,500 injured, according to the Moroccan government. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue workers continue to search for survivors.

The earthquake has also caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. The Moroccan government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas and is providing assistance to those who have been affected.

The international community has also responded to the disaster, with countries such as Spain, France, and the United States offering to provide aid. The United Nations has also released $2 million in emergency funds to help Morocco with the relief effort.

The earthquake is a reminder of the seismic activity that occurs in the region. The Rif Mountains are located on a fault line and are prone to earthquakes. In 2004, a magnitude 6.3 earthquake killed more than 600 people in the region.

The Moroccan government is working to provide assistance to those who have been affected by the earthquake. The international community has also responded to the disaster with offers of aid. The relief effort is ongoing and it is expected to take some time to rebuild the affected areas.