In Morocco, at least 820 people were killed and over 600 injured as a strong earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck the central parts of the country last night.

According to the US Geological Survey, the epicenter was in the Atlas Mountains, 71 kilometers south-west of Marrakesh, at a depth of 18.5 kilometers.   

The earthquake destroyed historic buildings, and forced many to flee their homes. It may take some time to determine casualties in the remote mountain areas.

The quake was also felt in neighbouring Algeria, but officials said it has not caused any damage or casualties.