NRIAG official explains cause behind recurring earthquakes in the region

Egypt Independent

2 days ago

The head of the Seismology Department at the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG), Sherif al-Hadi, addressed rising concerns over the recent wave of earthquakes that have struck the region, including the earthquake that occurred on Monday, with others even linking the severe Alexandria storm to them.
During a phone interview with the Extra News channel on Tuesday, Hadi explained that the recent earthquakes were located within the active seismic belt in the Mediterranean Sea, which extends from Cyprus to the island of Crete and the surrounding areas.
'These earthquakes are frequent and regular in the seismic belt, which has historically been known for its activity. However, what happened recently was a sudden seismic activity known as seismic storms.'
Hadi explained, 'Despite the recurrence, all the earthquakes we recorded were at great depths, up to about 60 kilometers, making them less dangerous to infrastructure and not causing significant material damage. This is a safe depth that reduces the risk of destruction. There is a significant difference between deep earthquakes and shallow earthquakes, which can leave dangerous aftershocks.'
Feeling earthquake tremors is normal in these active areas, he assured, adding that there are no indications of an imminent disaster.
'All we are experiencing is a period of natural seismic activity, such as solar activity or other natural phenomena. Earthquakes cannot be predicted accurately, but we are monitoring them continuously,' he said.
Hadi concluded his remarks by further reassuring citizens, saying, 'Thankfully, Egypt is experiencing less seismic activity compared to neighboring countries like Cyprus, Greece, and southern Turkey. This activity we are experiencing is normal and does not warrant excessive concern. We hope this period passes peacefully, and we urge everyone to follow preventive instructions.'