A 5.2-magnitude earthquake recently struck northern Morocco, triggering fears due to previous trauma from the 2023 Atlas earthquake. Fortunately, reports indicate no casualties or severe damages. However, residents, especially those affected by past disasters, are experiencing heightened anxiety and PTSD. Efforts for psychological support remain inadequate amidst ongoing recovery challenges.
A recent 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck northern Morocco shortly before midnight, causing fear among residents and memories of the devastating 2023 Atlas earthquake to resurface. The quake’s epicenter was located in the Brikcha commune, situated in the Ouazzane province, which is characterized by more accessible mountain roads as opposed to the isolated areas affected by the previous disaster.
Aicha Khayi, a local resident, recounted her terrifying experience as she attempted to alert her neighbors while fearing for her life. Khayi’s anxiety stemmed from the painful memories of losing relatives during the previous seismic disaster in September 2023. Brikcha, with its population of around 9,400, has managed to avoid the severe damage seen in other regions like Al-Haouz.
Nasser Jabour, head of the National Institute of Geophysics, stated that while some minor structural cracks were observed, the geography of Brikcha along with the quake’s magnitude suggested minimal risk of disaster. Fortunately, local authorities reported no casualties or significant structural damages during this recent quake. Following the tremor, residents were advised to stay outside, prepared for potential aftershocks.
Panic quickly spread beyond Brikcha, with individuals from cities as far as Rabat experiencing anxiety and fleeing their homes. Mohamed El-Wardi of Kenitra expressed his fear and the weight of past losses from the Al-Haouz earthquake, stating, “Thank God for everything, but we can’t handle more loss and trauma.”
In light of trauma from the previous earthquake, many residents opted to stay outside overnight, facing the cold rather than risking the safety of their homes. Souhail Abounaim from Psychologues Maghreb noted that the fears and anxieties of the recent quake are deeply interwoven with the traumatic experiences suffered in the Al-Haouz disaster, where nearly 3,000 people lost their lives.
Since the September earthquake, many survivors have experienced Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), with the recent quake intensifying these symptoms, particularly for those who have not received adequate psychological support. Despite ongoing efforts to provide assistance, Abounaim indicated that much remains to be done for recovery, highlighting a lack of government support in addressing psychological trauma.
The recent earthquake in northern Morocco has reignited fears among residents, especially those scarred by the 2023 Atlas earthquake. With reports of no casualties or significant damage in Brikcha, the psychological toll remains a critical concern. Many continue to struggle with the effects of PTSD, exacerbated by insufficient governmental support. As communities work towards recovery, the importance of addressing mental health needs becomes increasingly clear.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
