2 Earthquakes Rock Israel in Under a Day, Shaking Some Nerves

A second earthquake in less than a day shook northern Israel on Sunday. The 3.5-magnitude temblor centered near Tiberias caused some people to leave their homes and workplaces for the relative safety of the street, and led to the evacuation of some buildings, per the protocol of some municipalities. A 3.7 magnitude earthquake centered around Beit Shean in the Jordan Valley was felt throughout Israel on Saturday night, according to Israel’s Geological Survey. In addition, a 4.2 magnitude earthquake that struck Cyprus early on Sunday morning also was felt in Israel. No casualties or damage has been reported from the temblors. Following the quakes, Israel’s Home Front Command later on Sunday issued guidelines on proper behavior during an earthquake. Less than two weeks ago, a 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Cyprus and was felt across the region, including in Israel, Lebanon and Turkey. Several major and minor fault lines run through Israel, located on the Syrian-African rift and the Dead Sea Rift. On average, Israel experiences a strong earthquake every 80 to 100 years Hundreds of people died and were injured in a 6.2 magnitude earthquake in 1927 that centered on the Dead Sea.