5.2-Magnitude Earthquake in Morocco’s Ouezzane Province: No Damage Reported

A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Ouezzane Province in Morocco, with no damage reported. The tremors were felt up to 200 km away, recalling the devastating earthquake of 2023 that caused significant loss of life and infrastructure damage. In response, Morocco is implementing disaster management projects funded under its prevention initiatives.

On Monday evening, the National Institute of Geophysics reported a 5.2-magnitude earthquake in Ouezzane Province, northern Morocco. The earthquake, occurring at 11:48 p.m. and at a depth of 20 kilometers, had its epicenter near Ksar el-Kebir, situated within the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region. Notably, no damage has been reported as of yet, according to the Moroccan news agency MAP.

Tremors from the quake were felt as far as 200 kilometers from the epicenter, impacting cities including Fez, Casablanca, and Rabat, along with northern cities such as Tangier and Tetouan. In light of recent seismic events, many residents evacuated their homes, recalling the catastrophic earthquake in September 2023 that resulted in approximately 3,000 casualties and extensive infrastructure damage, particularly in small villages of the Al Haouz region.

In response to the recurring natural disasters, Morocco has initiated further measures under its disaster management policy. In a notable statement, Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit disclosed that 325 projects, amounting to MAD 4.72 billion (approximately $471 million), were funded under the “Incentives for the Development of Disaster Risk Reduction and Prevention Activities” program. Laftit also mentioned that monetary support for this program was derived from the Fund to Combat the Effects of Natural Disasters, which contributed to one-third of the total funding.

The recent 5.2-magnitude earthquake in Ouezzane Province, Morocco, serves as a potent reminder of seismic hazards. Fortunately, no damage has been recorded, contrasting with the devastating earthquake in 2023 that claimed numerous lives and caused significant destruction. In response, the Moroccan government is enhancing its disaster management strategies, evidenced by funding for numerous prevention projects to mitigate future risks.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com