Morocco’s powerful earthquake: What we know so far

Morocco has been struck by one of the most powerful earthquakes it ever experienced, a temblor that killed hundreds of people, destroyed historic buildings, and forced many to flee their homes.

Residents in major cities reported “unbearable” screams as the strong earthquake wreaked havoc across the North African nation, with losses of every kind expected to mount, from human to economic.How powerful was the earthquake?
Moroccan media reported it was the most powerful earthquake to hit the country to date.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) put the quake’s magnitude at 6.8 and said it was at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5km (11.5 miles).

Morocco’s geophysical centre, meanwhile, said the quake struck with a magnitude of 7.2.How many people are affected?
At least 820 killed and 670 people are injured, according to Moroccan state media. Most of the dead are in hard-to-reach mountain areas.

When did it happen?
The earthquake hit after 11pm local time (22:00 GMT) on Friday evening, according to USGS.

Where did it hit?
The earthquake was felt all over the country including in the provinces of al-Haouz, Ouarzazate, Marrakesh, Azilal, Chichaoua and Taroudant.What damage has been reported so far?
Residents in Marrakesh reported some buildings collapsed in the old city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Footage of the medieval city wall showed large cracks in one section with rubble lying on the street.