A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Ouezzane Province in northern Morocco, confirmed by the National Institute of Geophysics. The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 20 kilometers, did not result in any reported damage. The tremors were felt widely across the region, triggering fears among residents in light of the 2023 earthquake that killed over 3,000 people. The Moroccan government is implementing projects to enhance disaster resilience.
On Monday evening, the National Institute of Geophysics reported a 5.2-magnitude earthquake that occurred in Ouezzane Province, located in northern Morocco. This seismic event transpired at 11:48 p.m., at a depth of 20 kilometers, and was centered near Ksar el-Kebir in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region. Fortunately, no damage has been recorded, confirmed by the Moroccan news agency, MAP.
The tremors from this earthquake were felt across a wide area, extending up to 200 kilometers south of the epicenter, affecting cities such as Fez, Casablanca, and Rabat, alongside northern towns like Tangier and Tetouan. In the aftermath, many citizens evacuated their homes due to fear, recalling the tragic earthquake of 2023 that resulted in significant casualties and destruction.
On September 8, 2023, Morocco endured one of its deadliest earthquakes in history, particularly affecting the Al Haouz region, where at least 3,000 individuals lost their lives. The disaster also inflicted severe damage to infrastructure, especially impacting the residents of small villages. In response, the Moroccan government has enhanced its disaster management policies.
Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit indicated that Morocco has initiated 325 projects, funded at MAD 4.72 billion (approximately $471 million) through the “Incentives for the Development of Disaster Risk Reduction and Prevention Activities” program. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving disaster management and reducing risks associated with natural disasters, supported financially by the Fund to Combat the Effects of Natural Disasters, which provided one-third of the funding for these projects.
In summary, the recent earthquake in Ouezzane Province, Morocco, outlined the country’s ongoing challenges with seismic activity. The absence of damage was a relief, especially following the catastrophic earthquake in 2023. The Moroccan government is taking proactive measures, as evidenced by its multi-million MAD investments to strengthen disaster preparedness and response, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding its citizens against future natural disasters.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
