With reporting from Dora Christodoulou, Ioanna Mantzipa, Natasa Christoforou
Panic spread across Paphos after a strong earthquake centred near the city struck Cyprus at around 11:30am, forcing runway inspections at the local airport before flights could resume.
The tremor measured 5.7 on the Richter scale, according to initial estimates, and was followed by seven aftershocks. The earthquake was strongly felt across all districts, with residents rushing into the streets and schools evacuating classrooms, though no injuries or damage have been reported so far.
Alarm in Paphos epicentre
The earthquake was particularly strong in Paphos. The intensity and duration of the tremor caused panic amongst many residents who rushed into the streets, whilst at least two aftershocks were strongly felt over the following 20 minutes, increasing anxiety.
Police and fire services in Paphos told philenews that no injuries or damage to property had been reported, though the intensity of the tremor prompted numerous telephone calls from alarmed residents seeking information.
The earthquake was especially strong in lower Paphos, whilst Paphos airport, which eyewitnesses said shook at an unprecedented level in years, required runway inspections for potential damage before flights could resume, according to standard protocols.
People gathered in open spaces across Paphos and surrounding areas after hastily leaving their homes and workplaces.
The situation has since returned to normal, though anxiety remains about the possibility of another tremor of similar intensity or continued strong aftershocks following this morning’s experience.
No calls for help in Limassol
Limassol police received no calls for help or reports of material damage an hour after the strong tremor.
The police control centre received no requests for rescues or reports of damage, according to philenews, though some school administrations contacted police seeking guidance on managing the situation and how to proceed with students.
The tremor was strongly felt in Limassol, with hundreds of residents reporting their experience mainly through social media. Workers at some public services left buildings for safety reasons, as did staff at Limassol District Court.
Schools in the city followed standard protocol, moving students to open spaces until approval was given to return to classrooms, which subsequently happened.
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 Famagusta district said no damage or injuries had been reported so far.
Capital shaken
The earthquake was particularly felt in Nicosia, with many residents going into the streets for protection. Although the tremor was strong, no problems were recorded. Police and fire services said they had received no calls for help so far, either for injuries or damage.
