Crete Rocked by 6.3 Earthquake, Felt as Far as Central Israel

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck the Greek island of Crete on Wednesday, sending tremors across the eastern Mediterranean and jolting residents in central Israel, including Tel Aviv and surrounding areas. The quake, recorded at a depth of 83 kilometers, was confirmed by the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ).

Though centered near Crete, the seismic event was powerful enough to be felt as far away as Israel and Egypt. In Egypt, the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics reported no casualties or damage but acknowledged the quake’s impact along its northern coastline.

In Israel, residents reported light shaking in high-rise buildings and brief tremors felt throughout cities like Tel Aviv, Petah Tikva, and Ramat Gan. While no damage or injuries were reported, the event is a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity.

Israeli authorities have long warned of the need to prepare for such natural disasters. In February, the deputy head of the National Security Council convened a meeting to address the nation’s readiness for potential tsunamis triggered by Mediterranean earthquakes.

Israel sits near the Dead Sea Rift, a seismically active zone that has experienced devastating earthquakes throughout history. Though Wednesday’s quake caused no immediate harm, experts say it underscores the urgency of improving Israel’s earthquake preparedness, particularly in densely populated urban centers.

As the region continues to experience periodic seismic events, Israeli officials are urging the public to review emergency protocols and ensure readiness for future occurrences.

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