A moderate earthquake struck eastern Egypt in the early hours of Monday, prompting authorities to activate emergency response measures despite no immediate reports of injuries or damage. The tremor, measured at magnitude 5.5 by Egypt’s National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics, occurred at around 3:00 a.m. approximately 40 kilometres north of Suez. Initial readings had placed the magnitude slightly lower before being revised. The United States Geological Survey also recorded the quake but later adjusted its estimate to a lower magnitude, noting the tremor was relatively shallow.
The earthquake was felt across a واسعة area, including the capital Cairo, where many residents were awakened by the shaking. Reports indicated that the tremors extended as far as El-Arish, near Egypt’s border with Gaza.
In response to the incident, Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar directed all emergency units to remain on high alert. Ambulance services across the country were instructed to operate at maximum preparedness levels as a precaution. Authorities, including the Ministry of Health and the Egyptian Red Crescent, confirmed that there were no immediate reports of casualties or structural damage.
The Egyptian Red Crescent advised residents to avoid old and weakened buildings, particularly in densely populated and lower-income areas of Cairo where infrastructure may be more vulnerable. While strong earthquakes are uncommon in Egypt, the country has experienced significant seismic events in the past. The most notable occurred in October 1992, when a 5.8-magnitude quake struck Cairo, killing more than 500 people and leaving thousands homeless.
Although the earthquake caused concern among residents, the lack of casualties or destruction has provided reassurance. Authorities continue to monitor the situation while maintaining readiness for any potential aftershocks.
