A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck northern Morocco on Monday, causing fears linked to the traumatic aftermath of the 2023 Atlas earthquake. Although damage was minimal, residents experienced heightened anxiety, with many recalling past losses. Psychological support remains inadequate, as community organizers emphasize ongoing needs for help in coping with trauma.

On Monday, just before midnight, Morocco experienced a 5.2-magnitude earthquake that was felt as far as Rabat, the capital. The tremors awakened fears stemming from the traumatic memories of the September 2023 Atlas earthquake, which had caused significant fatalities and destruction. The epicenter was located in the Brikcha commune, a mountainous area within Ouazzane province, characterized by its access to roads and villages unlike the more isolated Atlas region.

Local resident Aicha Khayi recounted her panic during the quake, saying, “I was almost asleep when I felt the ground shaking beneath me. I ran outside and tried to wake up my neighbors.” She expressed her fears of becoming entombed in rubble and losing loved ones, invoking memories of her distant relatives who perished in the previous earthquake.

The recent earthquake in Morocco has reignited fears and trauma associated with previous seismic disasters. While the damage reported was minimal, the psychological impact of the 2023 Atlas earthquake persists for many individuals, highlighting the need for ongoing support. Community organizations such as Psychologues Maghreb emphasize the importance of addressing these psychological challenges, which remain largely unrecognized and unsupported by the government.

Original Source: www.newarab.com