Morocco earthquake: UK amongst 4 international locations to ship assist as greater than 2,100 confirmed lifeless

The UK has despatched assist to Morocco after a lethal earthquake obliterated a part of the nation leaving greater than 2,100 lifeless.

In response to the devastation, the federal government has flown over 60 search and rescue specialists, 4 search canines, a medical evaluation crew, and rescue gear to the North African nation.

CCTV shows moment earthquake struck – latest updates

Several international locations provided to assist Morocco, together with the US and France, however officers “assessed” the scenario and mentioned it might settle for worldwide support from simply 4 international locations: Britain, Spain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

The 6.8 magnitude quake unleashed a wave of destruction when it struck close to the vacationer vacation spot of Marrakech on Friday evening, with properties destroyed and lots of of households displaced.

At least 2,122 individuals have been killed although the variety of fatalities is predicted to rise as rescue crews battle to succeed in extra distant areas – which can have misplaced electrical energy and cell phone reception.

Many extra civilians are injured, with some trapped beneath the particles because the rescue operation is beneath means.

The UK’s specialist search gear contains seismic listening units, concrete chopping and breaking gear, and different instruments that can be utilized to deal with rubble to succeed in individuals beneath collapsed buildings.

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And aftershocks will proceed to hit Morocco lasting both days, weeks and even months, the director of the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre informed Sky News.

Since the earthquake struck, 25 aftershocks have been recorded up to now, Remy Bossu mentioned.

Mr Bossu added: “There will be aftershocks. It is not probably, it is a certainty.”

The epicentre was excessive within the Atlas Mountains – about 43 miles (70km) away from Marrakech.

The earthquake was the strongest to hit Morocco in many years.

The UK will stay in shut contact with the Moroccan authorities over the rescue efforts.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps mentioned: “This is a devastating time for the people of Morocco, particularly those with loved ones they have lost or are missing.

“The UK has taken a number one position within the worldwide effort to reinforce search and rescue operations – shifting shortly to deploy our distinctive strategic airlift capabilities, professional personnel and support.

“We stand firmly by Morocco as they get through this terrible event.”