Tectonic Plates

Tectonic Plates

    Morocco is located in the country of Africa, which means it is located on the African plate. The African Plate and the Eurasian Plate merge at the north of Morocco along a tectonic boundary called the Mediterranean Ridge or the Alboran Sea. In other words, Morocco is located pretty close to a plate boundary, more specifically a convergent boundary. The exact distance from Morocco to the plate boundary can change depending on the specific location in the country. The plate boundary is closer to northern Morocco, such as the Rif Mountains. Geological effects of this tectonic activity include the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and the possibility for volcanic activity in the area. Earthquakes frequently occur in Morocco, mainly in the north of Morocco. The tectonic plate convergence can cause tension, which can be released in the form of an earthquake. The tectonic activity in the area can cause volcanic eruptions, despite the fact that Morocco is not known for its volcanoes. The volcanic system of the African Plate also includes volcanic islands in the Mediterranean Sea, such as the Canary Islands. Lastly, the northern coastal regions of Morocco could be at risk of a tsunami, even though Morocco's Atlantic coastline is less vulnerable to tsunamis.

(Source: https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/89511/moroccos-high-atlas-mountains)