At least 296 people dead after Morocco earthquake

Officials in Morocco have confirmed that at least 296 people have died in a powerful earthquake.

A 6.8 magnitude tremor struck just after 23:00 local time (22:00 GMT), and a strong aftershock 19 minutes later, felt in cities across the country.

Unverified video on social media appeared to show buildings crumbling after the tremors hit and people rushing into the streets in alarm.

The epicentre of Friday night's quake was in the High Atlas Mountains, 71km (44 miles) south-west of Marrakesh, at a depth of 18.5km, the US Geological Survey said.

"We felt a very violent tremor, and I realised it was an earthquake," Abdelhak El Amrani, a 33-year-old in Marrakesh, told AFP news agency.

"I could see buildings moving. Then I went outside and there were a lot of people there. People were all in shock and panic. The children were crying and the parents were distraught.

"The power went out for 10 minutes, and so did the (telephone) network, but then it came back on. Everyone decided to stay outside," he said.

Moroccan officials - quoted on state TV - said that nearly 300 people are known to have died in the disaster. Here's what the statement said:

Quote Message: "According to a provisional report, the earthquake killed 296 people in the provinces and municipalities of Al-Haouz, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua and Taroudant."

"According to a provisional report, the earthquake killed 296 people in the provinces and municipalities of Al-Haouz, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua and Taroudant."

The stricken areas are mostly south of Marrakesh, which is a popular tourist destination.

The ministry added that 153 others had been injured and taken to hospital.