6.8-magnitude earthquake strikes Morocco, nearly 296 people killed

Morocco experienced a significant earthquake late on Friday, resulting in structural damage in major urban centers and prompting residents to rush to the streets in alarm, from Rabat to Marrakech. Initial reports have not provided any information about casualties, and government authorities have yet to release statements regarding the impact of the quake. Morocco's Interior Ministry said a powerful earthquake killed at least 296 people, reports AP

Videos shared by Moroccans depict some buildings reduced to debris, while tourists and others have uploaded footage of restaurant evacuations in Marrakech amidst the backdrop of pulsating club music.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the earthquake initially registered at a magnitude of 6.8, striking at precisely 11:11 p.m. Meanwhile, Morocco's National Seismic Monitoring and Alert Network recorded it as a 7 on the Richter scale.

It's not unusual for early measurements to display some variability, although either of these readings would mark one of the most powerful earthquakes Morocco has experienced in years. While North Africa is not typically associated with seismic activity, the region did endure a devastating magnitude 5.8 earthquake near Agadir in 1960, resulting in a significant loss of life.

The earthquake's epicenter was located high in the Atlas Mountains, situated to the south of Marrakech and west of Oukaimeden, a renowned Moroccan ski resort. It was also in close proximity to Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.

As of early Saturday, Morocco's official news agency, MAP, had not released any information or updates regarding the earthquake. The situation continues to develop, and authorities are likely assessing the extent of the damage and any potential casualties.

(With inputs from AP)