Geologist Dr. Ali Azdi Moussa said the earthquake that struck northwestern Morocco just before midnight last night, with a magnitude of 5.2, is not an uncommon event.
It stood out due to its shallow depth of 20 kilometers, which intensified the tremor felt at the surface, Moussa told Hespress AR.
While earthquakes of this magnitude happen regularly across the globe without being noticed, this particular tremor was more perceptible because of its proximity to the surface and the resulting strength of the seismic waves, especially for residents in taller buildings.
The earthquake was felt widely, with reports of people experiencing the tremor across several regions, including the western, central, and eastern parts of Morocco.
Initial confusion about the earthquake’s epicenter and magnitude was clarified by the National Institute of Geophysics, which pinpointed the epicenter in Ouazzane province.
While many feared possible damage, local authorities quickly assured the public that no significant destruction had occurred.
Moussa explained that seismic activity in this region is typical, given its location along the Rif mountain range, formed by the collision of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates.
He emphasized that while tremors of this size are ordinary, the key factor in how strongly they are felt lies in their depth and proximity to populated areas.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and inspect older buildings for any cracks or structural issues, especially after a tremor, to ensure that necessary repairs are made promptly.
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