5.2-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Morocco’s Ouezzane Province, Causing Panic
A 5.2-magnitude earthquake hit Ouezzane, Morocco, causing no reported damage or casualties but instilling panic. The quake was felt across cities like Rabat and Casablanca, 200 kilometers away. Following a devastating 2023 earthquake, Morocco has initiated extensive disaster risk reduction projects to enhance preparedness for future events.
A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Morocco’s Ouezzane province at 11:48 PM on Monday. While no damages or casualties have been reported, the incident induced panic in the region, especially following the devastating earthquake in 2023 that resulted in thousands of fatalities. The quake’s epicenter was located near Ksar el-Kebir, part of the larger Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima area, occurring at a depth of 20 kilometers. Tremors were felt significantly across multiple cities, including Rabat, Fez, Tangier, and Casablanca, approximately 200 kilometers from the epicenter.
Despite the absence of physical damage, visibly alarmed residents were captured in videos fleeing their homes, reminiscent of the fear following the deadly earthquake of September 8, 2023. That particular quake, with a magnitude of 6.8, caused extensive destruction in the High Atlas region, claiming nearly 3,000 lives and damaging over 60,000 houses. In light of these occurrences, Morocco has committed to enhancing its disaster management strategies in response to such natural events.
In the aftermath of last year’s earthquake, Morocco initiated a comprehensive disaster risk reduction and prevention program, encompassing 325 projects estimated to cost MAD 4.72 billion (approximately $471 million). Abdelouafi Laftit, Morocco’s Interior Minister, highlighted the funding provided by the Fund to Combat the Effects of Natural Disasters, which constitutes nearly one-third of the total program cost. These initiatives signify the government’s proactive approach in mitigating risks associated with natural disasters.
In summary, the recent earthquake in Morocco’s Ouezzane province, although mild and without reported damages, reignited public fears stemming from the tragic events of 2023. The Moroccan government is actively investing in disaster management strategies to prepare for potential future seismic events. The comprehensive initiative not only aims to reinforce structural safety but also addresses the psychological impacts of earthquakes on the population.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
