More than 1,300 people have been killed after a 6.8 magnitude earthquake in Morocco, officials have said. Many of the fatalities are said to be in hard-to-reach areas south of Marrakech. Tourists have been donating blood, while witnesses have told of their shock as the earthquake hit.
There's no doubt the number of dead will rise - the only question is by how muchhas arrived in Marrakech.
"I don't think there is any doubt the number of dead is going to rise, the only question is how steeply." The next 24 to 48 hours is"critical" for saving lives in Morocco, a director of a worldwide humanitarian organisation has warned. "This will not be a week or two of response as our region has seen with the big Turkey and Syrian earthquake earlier this year," he said.Survivors start burying their dead
Remote villages like those in the drought-stricken Ouargane Valley were largely cut off from the world when they lost electricity and phone service. As rescue efforts continue, more photos are emerging from areas outside of Marrakech. Abdellatif Ait Bella, who was injured in the earthquake, lies on the ground as he and his wife Saida Bodchich prepare to spend a second night in the open air.
Experts have predicted the number of fatalities will keep climbing as rescuers reach hard-hit remote areas and search efforts continue. Officials are working to clear roads so ambulances and aid can reach those affected - but large distances between mountain villages mean it will take time to learn the full extent of damage caused by the earthquake.
Israel's Magen David Adom national medical and disaster emergency service said its head contacted the president of Moroccan Red Crescent with an offer of help.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
UK's longest-lasting snow patch melts for 10th time in 300 yearsTHE UK's longest-lasting snow patch has melted away - for only the tenth time in 300 years.
Read more »
UK's long-lasting snow patch melts away for 10th time in 300 yearsIt is believed to be only the 10th time in 300 years The Sphinx is known to have vanished.
Read more »
Danilo puts in Rangers hard yards training aloneThe Brazilian forward has managed just 300 minutes of football for Rangers so far this season.
Read more »
Family caught up in 'terrifying' Morocco quake hours after arriving in countryLauren Jones and her family had just checked into their hotel when the 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck
Read more »
Sofyan Amrabat withdraws from Morocco squad after Man Utd spot injury in medicalManchester United midfielder Sofyan Amrabat has been withdrawn from the latest Morocco squad.
Read more »
Man United suffer injury blow as Sofyan Amrabat pulls out of Morocco squadThe Morocco international signed for Man United on loan from Fiorentina on transfer deadline day but could now be ruled out through injury
Read more »