Morocco earthquake: a warning for cities with brick buildings

Tragedy: The earthquake that hit Morocco has killed more than 2,900 people, with thousands more injured. — AFP

THE scenes of devastation from the Morocco earthquake are both horrifying and grimly familiar.

Piles of mud bricks littering whole neighbourhoods where homes and businesses once stood. Rescuers walking over mounds of debris so massive they obscure the landscape. Residents so fearful of more buildings falling that they’re sleeping on the street.