At 11pm local time on Friday, September 8th, a devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit Morocco, with an epicenter only 72 kilometers outside of Marrakech. According to state authorities, more than 1000 deaths have already been confirmed, and destruction is widespread throughout remote regions of the Atlas Mountains as well as in urban centers.
International Blue Crescent Relief & Development Foundation is responding to provide immediate relief. In the hours since the earthquake hit, IBC has been coordinating closely with local authorities and emergency response personnel to mobilize critical relief items including food packets, hygiene kits, blankets, non-food items, temporary shelter and drinking water. IBC is also working to establish community safety points where people can gather to access services, seek shelter and protection, and receive direct support.
IBC is continuing to monitor the situation and will update our response efforts as the needs evolve.