Morocco Earthquake: Muslim Charities Appeal for Help as Death Toll Exceeds 2000

LONDON (IQNA) – Muslim charities across the world have appealed for help after a deadly earthquake in Morocco that has claimed lives of at least 2,000 people.

A devastating earthquake has hit Morocco, killing more than 2,000 people and injuring hundreds more. The quake, which struck at 11.11pm on September 8, 2023, was magnitude 6.8 and centered in the High Atlas mountains. Many remote villages in the region have been reduced to rubble by the powerful tremors.

Muslim charities have expressed their solidarity with the people of Morocco and launched appeals for donations to help the survivors. Muslim Hands, Islamic Relief, Penny Appeal, and Muslim Aid are among the organizations that are working with their partners on the ground to provide emergency aid, such as food, water, shelter, and medical care.

Muslim Hands said in a statement: "As powerful tremors continue, we need your help to support our brothers and sisters. £100 can provide an emergency food parcel and water for earthquake survivors. Each food parcel lasts one month."

Islamic Relief said in a statement: "Islamic Relief does not have a presence in Morocco but we are closely monitoring the unfolding situation and are conducting rapid needs assessments, as local teams from neighboring countries are en route."

Penny Appeal said in a statement: "Penny Appeal are working with our partners on the ground to deliver essential aid to communities affected by this tragic quake. Our teams are working hard to reach those most in need and help save as many lives as possible as we anticipate the colossal damage this tragic event will have."

Muslim Aid said in a statement: " Muslim Aid is ready to respond, and our team is working tirelessly to ensure your donations reach the people affected as soon as possible."

The death toll of the Morocco earthquake is expected to rise as rescue workers search for survivors under the debris. The quake is one of the deadliest natural disasters in Morocco's history.

The earthquake’s epicentre was the Ighil area, a mountainous rural commune home to small farming villages in the al-Haouz province near the ski resort of Oukaimeden in the Atlas Mountains.

The epicentre was 75km (44 miles) from Marrakesh, Morocco’s fourth largest city. The city’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is reported to have been particularly affected with images emerging of collapsed buildings.

Source: Agencies