On Monday, a 5.2-magnitude earthquake shook northern Morocco, reminding residents of the deadly Al-Haouz disaster in 2023. While there were no reported injuries or significant damage, anxiety spread as individuals evacuated their homes. Many are still grappling with PTSD from past traumas, highlighting the urgent need for psychological support and resources in the aftermath of such disasters.
On the evening of Monday, a 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck northern Morocco, with tremors felt as far as Rabat. This unsettling event resurfaced fears and memories linked to the devastating Atlas earthquake of September 2023, which claimed numerous lives. The earthquake was centered in the Brikcha commune, in the Ouazzane province, known for its mountainous terrain.
Aicha Khayi, a resident of Brikcha, described her terrifying experience: “I was almost asleep when I felt the ground shaking beneath me. I ran outside and tried to wake up my neighbours.” Her fear stemmed from the trauma of losing distant relatives during the previous quake, a reminder of the potential devastation.
Brikcha, which boasts easier accessibility compared to more isolated areas like the Atlas, is populated by approximately 9,400 residents across 25 villages. Nasser Jabour, the head of the National Institute of Geophysics, assured that there was minimal risk of destruction following the latest quake, emphasizing, “There won’t be destruction like in Al-Haouz. Some old buildings have developed cracks, but nothing major.”
Officials reported that there were no casualties or significant damage, though they urged residents to remain outdoors for a few hours post-quake, to ensure safety from potential aftershocks. The anxiety extended beyond Brikcha, with individuals across several cities fleeing their homes, clutching belongings and reaching out to loved ones.
Mohamed El-Wardi, a Kenitra resident, expressed his relief but also concern, stating, “Thank God for everything, but we can’t handle more loss and trauma.” Community members turned to spirituality, reciting Quranic verses in prayer for their families. The haunting images of the previous earthquake left many too traumatized to sleep indoors.
Souhail Abounaim from Psychologues Maghreb noted that the recent earthquake intensified the trauma for many Moroccans, saying, “The fear and distress after yesterday’s earthquake are linked to many Moroccans’ past experiences with the Al-Haouz disaster.” Following the deadly 2023 quake, which resulted in nearly 3,000 fatalities and over 5,600 injuries, approximately 500,000 individuals remain displaced.
Psychologues Maghreb has highlighted that the earlier earthquake triggered significant Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among many, with little governmental support available. Abounaim lamented, “The state is offering nothing,” emphasizing that ongoing efforts to assist those affected necessitate substantial resources and commitment from the authorities.
The recent earthquake in northern Morocco has reignited fears among residents due to traumatic memories from the Al-Haouz disaster in 2023. Despite no reported casualties this time, the psychological impact is profound, with many suffering from PTSD. The lack of adequate state support for mental health further exacerbates the situation, underscoring the need for ongoing community assistance and psychological resources.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
