Emergency: Morocco Earthquake - ShelterBox Canada

Earthquake in Morocco

A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit Morocco, It’s the strongest earthquake to be recorded in the region and was felt as far as Portugal and Algeria.

ShelterBox is responding in Morocco and will work to support thousand of people left homeless by the earthquake.

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What is happening in Morocco

A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Morocco late on September 8th, 70km south of Marrakesh. It’s the strongest recorded in the region and was felt as far as Portugal and Algeria.

The earthquake hit just after 11pm local time, under the cover of darkness, when many people would have been asleep. People spent the night on the streets, fearful of aftershocks, either unable or not wanting to return home. Thousands of people have lost their lives and the death toll continues rising as rescue operations continue.

ShelterBox is responding. We are working closely with the Government, local authorities, and our Rotary network to support people living in remote areas who have been left with very little. We’re working hard to get tents, thermal blankets, solar lights and kitchen sets to communities without adequate shelter in mountain villages that have largely been reduced to rubble. Protection from the cold will be vital as winter nights get colder.

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Please note, to be effective as possible we do not accept donations for specific disasters unless specifically stated in an emergency appeal.

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Need help? Please contact us at [email protected] or by calling 647-352-1930.

Morocco Earthquake - key facts

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Where is the earthquake in Morocco?

An earthquake, measuring 6.8 magnitude struck Morocco at 11.11pm on Friday September 8th.

The epicentre struck near the town of Ighil, roughly 70km south of Marrakesh. It was followed minutes later by a 4.9 aftershock.

When did the earthquake hit Morocco?

The devastating 6.8m earthquake struck Morocco at 11:11pm local time on Friday the 8th of September 2023.

A GDACS red alert was issued indicating that humanitarian needs are likely to be high.

Where was the epicentre of the Morocco Earthquake?

The USGS said the epicentre was 18 kilometres (11 miles) below the Earth’s surface.

Morocco’s seismic agency put it at 8 kilometres (5 miles) down. In either case, such shallow quakes are more dangerous.

Who has been affected by the earthquake in Morocco?

The death toll in Morocco is over 800, and rising quickly.

Buildings have been reduced to rubble and most of the damage has happened outside of the cities and towns in harder to reach areas.

Are earthquakes common in Morocco?

Earthquakes are relatively rare in North Africa, a magnitude 5.8 tremor struck near Agadir and caused thousands of deaths in 1960.

Where will my donation go?

When giving to ShelterBox you are allowing us to respond whenever disaster strikes.

Right now we are responding in 12 countries. Donations we are receiving now will go to the area of highest need.

Image: FADEL SENNA via Getty Images

Stories of Recovery From Morocco

Bela's Journey to Recovery

Bela’s home was irreparably damaged during the earthquake in Morocco. Read his journey.

Samira's Survival

Samira was home alone when the earthquake struck and her home crumbled. Read her journey.

Khadija's Story

Khadija’s family is changed since the earthquake struck. Read about her family here.