History of Earthquakes in Morocco
From 1624 to today, four centuries of earthquakes that shaped the Kingdom's history
Morocco, located at the junction of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, has experienced numerous destructive earthquakes over the centuries. This particular geographical position has led to the formation of the Rif and Atlas ranges, while exposing the country to regular seismic activity. Understanding this history allows better preparation for future events.
Major Earthquakes of 20th and 21st Centuries
The deadliest in 120 years
On the night of September 8, 2023, a devastating earthquake struck the Al Haouz province, 70 km southwest of Marrakech. The epicenter was in the High Atlas, at only 19 km depth.
Heritage and lessons
This earthquake led to the creation of the High Atlas Development Agency and a 120 billion DH reconstruction program over 5 years. It also revealed the importance of preserving traditional earthquake-resistant construction techniques.
The Rif catastrophe
On February 24, 2004, a violent earthquake shook the Al Hoceima region in the Rif. The active subduction zone north of Morocco caused this event which resulted in massive destruction in mountain villages.
Heritage and lessons
This earthquake led to a revision of Moroccan seismic regulations (RPS 2000 then RPS 2011) and better mapping of risk zones in the Rif.
The tragedy that changed Morocco
On February 29, 1960, at 11:40 PM, a magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck Agadir. Despite a 'moderate' magnitude, the shallow depth (15 km) and vulnerability of constructions caused unprecedented destruction. One-third of the city's population perished.
Heritage and lessons
The Agadir earthquake marked a turning point in modern Moroccan history. The city was entirely rebuilt according to seismic standards. From this tragedy, the first anti-seismic construction regulations in Morocco were developed.
Historical Earthquakes (before 20th century)
Fez Earthquake
Estimated magnitude 6.0. This earthquake caused significant damage in the Fez medina, one of Morocco's oldest imperial cities.
Agadir Earthquake
A first major earthquake struck Agadir, foreshadowing the 1960 catastrophe. Historical sources mention significant damage.
Fez Earthquake
One of the oldest documented earthquakes in Morocco. The Fez medina suffered significant destruction requiring reconstruction work.
Major Earthquakes Comparison Table
| Date | Location | Magnitude | Casualties | Depth | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 8, 2023 | Al Haouz | 6.8 | 2,946 | 19 km | Strongest in 120 years |
| Feb. 10, 2025 | Ksar El Kébir | 5.2 | 0 | 20 km | Felt up to Casablanca |
| Feb. 24, 2004 | Al Hoceima | 6.3 | 628 | 12 km | Massive Rif destruction |
| Feb. 29, 1960 | Agadir | 5.7 | 12,000+ | 15 km | 1/3 population decimated |
| Dec. 18, 1926 | Fez | 6.0 | ~50 | Unknown | Medina damage |
Lessons from History
Construction standards
Each major earthquake led to improvements in seismic regulations, from RPS 2000 to RPS 2011.
Traditional heritage
Ancestral well-laid stone construction techniques often offer better resistance than poorly executed modern constructions.
Critical depth
Shallow earthquakes (< 20 km) cause more damage than deep ones, even at equivalent magnitude.
National solidarity
Morocco's mobilization after each catastrophe demonstrates remarkable collective resilience.
Sources: EMSC, Morocco ING, National Archives, SGEB