Seismic Risks in Morocco
Understanding risk zones, active faults and the Kingdom's tectonic activity
Le Maroc se situe à la convergence des plaques tectoniques africaine et eurasienne, ce qui le rend vulnérable aux tremblements de terre. Cette position géographique explique la présence de chaînes montagneuses actives comme le Rif et l'Atlas.
Risk Zones by Region
High Risk
Active seismic zone
- RegionRif / Al Hoceima
- Historical max magnitude6.3
- M4+ frequency~5/year
- Last major earthquake2004
Active subduction zone with shallow faults
High Risk
Active seismic zone
- RegionHigh Atlas
- Historical max magnitude6.8
- M4+ frequency~3/year
- Last major earthquake2023
Al Haouz earthquake: 2,946 deaths in September 2023
Moderate Risk
Regular seismic activity
- RegionFez-Meknès
- Historical max magnitude6.0
- M4+ frequency~9/year
- Last major earthquakeDec. 2025
Damage risk: 10% over 50 years
Low Risk
Relatively stable zone
- RegionSahara / South
- Historical max magnitude< 4.0
- M4+ frequency< 1/year
- Last major earthquakeRare
Region far from active fault zones
Tectonic Structure of Morocco
Le Maroc présente une structure tectonique complexe, résultant de l'interaction entre les plaques africaine et eurasienne. Cette collision a formé les chaînes de montagne du Rif et de l'Atlas.
Rif Range
Active subduction zone in the north, responsible for Al Hoceima earthquakes. Shallow faults with high activity.
High Atlas
Range in continuous uplift, deep earthquakes but potentially destructive like the 2023 event.
Anti-Atlas
Ancient and stable structure, limited seismic activity.
Carte des failles tectoniques du Maroc
Major Earthquakes - History
| Date | Location | Magnitude | Casualties | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 8, 2023 | Al Haouz (Marrakech) | 6.8 | 2,946 | Strongest in 120 years |
| Feb. 24, 2004 | Al Hoceima | 6.3 | 628 | Massive Rif destruction |
| Feb. 29, 1960 | Agadir | 5.7 | 12,000+ | 1/3 population decimated |
| Dec. 18, 1926 | Fez | 6.0 | ~50 | Medina damage |
Prepare for earthquakes
Knowing life-saving actions can make the difference between life and death.
See safety guidelines →Sources : EMSC, ING Maroc, Think Hazard, SGEB