Death toll in Morocco earthquake surpasses 2000

Morocco: The devastating earthquake that struck Morocco on Friday night has claimed the lives of more than 2,000 people.

The 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck the High Atlas mountain range shortly after 11:00 p.m. local time on Friday at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5 km, as reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS).

Tragically, the earthquake has resulted in the loss of more than 2,000 lives and left at least 1,832 people injured, with 1,220 of them in critical condition, according to the latest update from Morocco’s Interior Ministry on Saturday.

In response to this devastating disaster, Morocco declared a three-day period of national mourning starting on Saturday. During this period, flags will be flown at half-mast on all public facilities as a mark of respect.

Meanwhile, the efforts to clear roads for search and rescue operations are underway.

Earlier in the day, PM Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of the lives in the quake. Taking to X , PM Modi said, ” Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an earthquake in Morocco. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the people of Morocco. Condolence to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. India is ready to offer all possible assistance to Morocco in this difficult time .”