Earthquake. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK Strong earthquake shakes both Cyprus and Israel..
Another tremor reported at 4:40 PM, measuring 5.3.
Locals received alerts shortly before the second tremor. The notice warned of potential aftershocks, advised to wear shoes, check for gas leaks, and evacuate if structures appear unsafe.
Susanna, a resident of Limassol, shared her concerns with PassportNews: "The morning tremor was hardly noticeable, but due to frequent minor aftershocks, fear of a stronger quake lingered. We didn't anticipate feeling tonight's tremor so intensely. In the morning, there was no damage. Now, items have fallen. I and others are considering packing and leaving Limassol and Paphos for the night to avoid potential danger."
The earthquake was also felt in the Ma'ale Adumim area.
At 11:31 AM, the European Seismological Center reported the epicenter was a few kilometers east of Paphos and several kilometers west of Limassol..
The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of about 10 kilometers beneath the sea surface, making it strongly felt. According to local media, the tremor was noticeable across Cyprus, including in Nicosia..
The Israeli Seismological Institute confirmed the tremor was felt in Israel too. Residents in the northern region reported experiencing the quake. Cypriot media reported that some office buildings in Nicosia were evacuated as a precautionary measure, though no injuries were reported..
The seismological institute remarks it is "an excellent opportunity to remember that emergencies can happen without warning and to refine protocols: during an earthquake, "open space is safest," otherwise priorities inside a structure are:
1. If possible, quickly exit to an open area.
2. If exiting is not possible, enter a secure room and keep the door open.
3. If no secure room exists, go to the stairwell and proceed to exit the building if feasible..
4. If unable to do so, take cover under sturdy furniture or sit on the floor against an inner wall..
5. In a vehicle - pull over safely and stay inside. Outside - move away from buildings and poles.