At least 19 people have lost their lives after two four-storey buildings collapsed overnight in the densely populated Al-Moustakbal neighbourhood of Fes, according to Morocco’s official news agency, MAP.
Rescue teams are tirelessly working to locate additional victims who may still be trapped under the rubble. Sixteen others sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe and were rushed to the University Hospital Centre in Fes for treatment.
The adjoining buildings, home to eight families, gave way in the Al-Massira area, prompting authorities to cordon off the site and evacuate nearby structures as a preventive measure. Officials have warned that the death toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue.
Fes has seen several structural tragedies in recent years. In February 2024, a house collapsed in the old city, killing five people. Similarly, in 2016, separate building collapses in Marrakech and another northern city left six people dead and dozens injured within a week.
Authorities in Fes have launched investigations to determine the cause of the latest building failure, with early inquiries focusing on structural integrity and possible construction violations.
“This is a devastating incident for our community,” said a local official. “Our priority remains rescuing those trapped and supporting the families affected by this tragedy.”
