A 4.5-magnitude earthquake has struck near Eilat in southern Israel, triggering warning sirens and prompting authorities to direct residents away from buildings as a precaution.
According to a preliminary assessment by the Geological Survey of Israel, the tremor was centred in the Taba area of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, at a depth of approximately eight kilometres.
The earthquake warning was issued by Israel’s Home Front Command, with sirens sounding in Eilat and several surrounding communities in the Arava region. Residents in affected areas were instructed to move into open spaces and keep away from buildings and other structures.
As a precautionary measure, Ramon Airport, located near Eilat, was also evacuated.
The Geological Survey’s initial assessment put the earthquake’s magnitude at 4.5 on the Richter scale.
The Home Front Command typically issues earthquake alerts for tremors measuring above magnitude 4.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or property damage following the incident.
Authorities have yet to provide further details on the extent of the tremor’s impact, while the initial assessment of its magnitude and location remains subject to confirmation.
4.5-magnitude earthquake strikes near Israel’s Eilat, Airport evacuated