The Foreign Office issued a travel advisory for Morocco on Saturday morning after 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck the north African country.

More than 2,000 people were confirmed dead by Sunday morning, following the quake at around 11pm local time on Friday.

According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake hit an area in the Atlas Mountains around 44 miles southwest of Marrakech.

Updated advice on the FCDO’s Morocco page said: “On Friday 8 September 2023 an earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck Morocco near Marrakesh. Further aftershocks are possible. You should follow the advice of local authorities, and follow local media.

“All Moroccan airports are open and flights to and from the UK are operating normally, with some airlines laying on additional seats for travellers wishing to return to the UK earlier than planned. Travellers wishing to change their flight plans should liaise direct with their tour operators or airline companies.

“If you are planning to travel to Morocco imminently we advise you check with your accommodation provider / tour operator to confirm arrangements before departure in case of disruption or damage resulting from the earthquake.

Speaking on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, foreign secretary James Cleverley said: “”Devastating news of a substantial earthquake just outside Marrakesh, Morocco.

“The UK is continuing to support British nationals in the region. We stand ready to help our Moroccan friends in whatever way we can.”