A powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.9 occurred in Morocco (4 photos + 12 videos)

The epicenter was in the Atlas Mountains. People died - according to the latest data, the number of victims is approaching 300.

On September 8 at 23:11 local time (01:11 Moscow time on Saturday), the first earthquake since 2004 occurred in Morocco. Its epicenter was in the Igil region, located in the province of El Haouz, 77 km from Marrakech.

The earthquake began unexpectedly and took the people of Morocco by surprise.

Tremors were felt in several major cities of the kingdom: Agadir, Casablanca, Kenitra, Rabat, Essaouira. Numerous building collapses have been recorded in Marrakech and Agadir. Some buildings' facades were damaged and the walls were covered with cracks.

Photos and videos of the consequences of the earthquake were published on social networks and news agencies.

Many dilapidated buildings fell after the second tremors.

At least 296 people became victims of the earthquake in the provinces and prefectures of El Haouz, Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chishaoua and Taroudant, Al Arabiya TV channel reported, citing the country's Ministry of Internal Affairs. Many people were injured. Now the rubble is being cleared in cities, and ordinary people are helping rescuers.

Carefully! The video is not intended for viewing by sensitive or pregnant women!

Survivors and wounded are being taken to clinics; 153 casualties are reported, but, of course, this is not the final figure.

The situation is complicated by the fact that in areas affected by the earthquake, there are serious problems with electricity supply and cellular communications.