Seismic Risks in Morocco
Understanding risk zones, active faults and the Kingdom's tectonic activity
Morocco is located at the convergence of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it vulnerable to earthquakes. This geographical position explains the presence of active mountain ranges like the Rif and the 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
Morocco presents a complex tectonic structure, resulting from the interaction between the African and Eurasian plates. This collision has formed the Rif and Atlas mountain ranges.
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.
Morocco tectonic faults map
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, Morocco ING, Think Hazard, SGEB