Description of the crisis

On 8 September 2023 at 23:00 local time a 6.8-magnitude earthquake shook Morocco. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake originated at a depth of 18.5 km with its epicenter in the High Atlas Mountains, located 71 km southwest of Marrakech, a major economic centre. The earthquake was felt as far away as Portugal and Algeria, according to the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere, and Algeria’s civil defense agency. A 4.9- magnitude aftershock then struck 19 minutes later. Damage to homes and critical infrastructure was extensive in all affected areas, highlighting the urgent need for emergency shelter support for those affected. Fearing further tremors, many survivors of the first two days sheltered in the streets for safety, while damaged roads, the continued risk of landslides, and the large distances complicated rescue and relief efforts.