Members of a Japanese non-governmental aid organization have begun relief activities in quake-hit Morocco.
Peace Winds Japan sent six personnel including two nurses to the central city of Marrakech following Friday's massive earthquake in the North African country.
The NGO supports people in disaster and conflict areas in and outside Japan.
The members started the work on Tuesday, delivering water, food and other supplies mainly to communities in hard-hit mountainous areas. They are also asking survivors what kind of support they need.
Team member Kondo Shimon spoke to NHK online early Wednesday, Japan time.
Kondo said systems to pump up well water have collapsed in some mountain communities, causing serious water shortages.
He also said there are not enough tents, and that some people are sheltering in simple ones made of wood and cloth.
He noted that some survivors are complaining of stress and headaches because they have not been sleeping well due to fear of aftershocks.
He said medical aid has arrived from only a limited number of countries so far, and that demand for such support is likely to grow.
Kondo said it will take a long time to rebuild and repair homes even if aftershocks subside.
He added that people with financial difficulties have sustained the worst damage, and that support will be crucial over the long term for those living in shelters.