Devastating Earthquake Claims Hundreds of Lives in Morocco

A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck central Morocco, killing over 800 people and causing extensive damage to the historic city of Marrakech. Many of the victims were in hard-to-reach mountainous areas near the epicenter. Rescue operations are ongoing, but roads have been damaged, making access difficult. The earthquake, the deadliest in decades, has left thousands of people displaced and fearful of aftershocks. The US Geological Survey warned of significant damage and noted that many structures in the area are highly vulnerable to earthquake shaking. Marrakech, a popular tourist destination, suffered damage to buildings and city walls, while the mountain village of Asni near the epicenter saw most houses damaged.