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IN THE wake of the recent Morocco earthquake, our hearts go out to the people who have lost their loved ones and have been affected by this tragic event.
Our thoughts are with the Moroccan and Arabic communities during this challenging time as they come to terms with the aftermath of the disaster.
It is in times like these that we are reminded of the devastating power of nature, and the importance of understanding the forces that shape our planet.
The Fukushima earthquake and tsunami in Japan and other catastrophic tremors in recent history serve as sombre reminders of the immense consequences of geological activity on human lives.
Morocco, while not typically associated with significant earth movements like some more renowned seismic regions, has been witness to the sudden and devastating impacts of earthquakes, notably the 1960 Agadir quake.
Professor Jesús Galindo-Zaldivar, along with a team of experts from Moroccan universities and Spanish institutions, has embarked on an intriguing exploration deep into the heart of the Atlas Mountains. They are delving into the enigmatic world of the Earth’s structure and dynamics, seeking answers to what triggered Morocco’s recent earthquake.
Their research unveils the Atlas Mountains’ genesis during the tumultuous break-up of the ancient Pangea supercontinent, showcasing its ongoing rise, evident in its towering peaks and rugged terrain. Curiously, though, while the region’s steep landscape and fractured crust hint at recent geological activity, major earthquakes have remained relatively infrequent. This apparent paradox arises from the gradual but incessant convergence of the Eurasian and African plates, causing the Atlas mountains to slowly squeeze together at a rate of about one millimetre per year, incrementally accumulating stress along fault lines.
The recent catastrophic earthquake near Marrakesh, a seismic event of 6.8 magnitude, stemmed from a geological phenomenon known as a ‘reverse fault’. This results from collision of tectonic plates, culminating in the thickening of the Earth’s crust. The accumulated stress along these fault lines was abruptly released culminating in the massive earthquake.
In light of these findings, authorities must prepare for future earthquakes. This involves identifying active fault lines, estimating potential magnitudes, and fortifying seismic building codes. Reinforcing traditional structures in mountainous areas is also crucial to minimise future damage. New buildings must meet stringent seismic standards for safety.
As we deepen our understanding of Earth’s geological complexities, our commitment to community resilience against nature’s unpredictability remains steadfast.
The author is a postdoctoral researcher at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
(ammar.shakr@gmail.com)
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