Recent earthquakes in Morocco
Morocco lies along the diffuse boundary between the African and Eurasian plates, whose slow convergence deforms the Rif and Atlas mountains. Earthquakes occur both in the northern Rif near the Mediterranean and within the High Atlas. The September 2023 Al Haouz earthquake (M6.8) struck the High Atlas south of Marrakesh, the country's deadliest in over half a century. In the past 24 hours, Morocco has recorded no earthquakes above the reporting threshold.
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Morocco have earthquakes?
Morocco sits where the African Plate slowly converges with Eurasia, deforming the Rif Mountains in the north and the Atlas ranges to the south. This produces earthquakes that, while less frequent than at fast plate boundaries, can be strong and shallow.
How often do earthquakes strike Morocco?
Morocco experiences damaging earthquakes less often than countries on active subduction zones, but significant events do occur, including in the Rif and the Atlas. Long gaps between them can leave communities and buildings unprepared.
What was the biggest recent earthquake in Morocco?
The September 8, 2023 Al Haouz earthquake, magnitude 6.8, struck the High Atlas about 70 km southwest of Marrakesh and killed roughly 2,900 people. The 1960 Agadir earthquake (M5.8) was smaller but devastated that city.
Nearby regions
Live data from the USGS earthquake feeds. Magnitudes and depths are automated readings and may be revised. Not for emergency use.