A strong earthquake shook Cyprus at around 11:30am, followed by six aftershocks and disruptions to telephone networks, prompting widespread evacuations as workers and students fled buildings across the island.
The tremor measured 5.7 on the Richter scale, according to initial estimates, though the Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens put the magnitude at 5.1.
The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) reported the 5.7 magnitude earthquake struck 50 kilometres west of Limassol and 18 kilometres north of Paphos. The focal depth was 21.2 kilometres.
The aftershocks followed within minutes and measured 3.5, 3.6, 4.7, 2.3, 2.5 and 3.9 on the Richter scale.
Telecommunications networks experienced problems immediately after the earthquake, according to reports.
Many workers left their posts and moved to outdoor areas, concerned for their safety. Students also gathered in school courtyards, following their teachers’ instructions to remain safe.
Alarm in central Larnaca
Despite the alarm caused, particularly amongst those living or working in tall buildings in Larnaca, police said no damage or injuries had been reported so far.
The tremor was felt most strongly in the city centre and coastal areas of the district, where its duration caused concern. Some residents of apartment blocks and workers temporarily evacuated buildings whilst awaiting official information.
The earthquake was also felt in coastal areas of the free Famagusta area and in Paralimni. Police in the Famagusta district said no damage or injuries had been reported so far.
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