CYPRUS - TECTONIC SETTING
The earthquake activity in Cyprus is largely driven by its tectonic setting:
• Cyprus lies near the boundary of the Cyprus Arc — a zone where the African tectonic plate moves northwards and interacts with the Eurasian (and Anatolian) plates.
Pressure builds up in this boundary zone due to plate motion. Faults in and around the island eventually release that energy in earthquakes.
Historical records show that:
• Every ~2 years there is an earthquake > 5 magnitude. 
• Every ~6 years there is one > 5.5 magnitude, etc.
• The western section of the Cyprus Arc (near Paphos) is among the more active sections for shallower quakes. 
• Earthquake activity was felt across wide areas (including parts of Lebanon and Israel) but is less likely to cause catastrophic damage compared to larger/deeper ones.
This last activity event is not strongly indicative of a very large magnitude quake (e.g., 7+) imminently. But of course, seismic activity can evolve, so monitoring is important.
• It’s also not volcanic in origin (no indication of magma or volcanic unrest tied to this event).
• The fact that no major damage was reported is good, but that doesn’t mean there’s no risk — building strength, ground conditions, local soil all matter.
Geological Survey Department of Cyprus (GSD) and related studies about the current seismic hazard in Cyprus:
The GSD maintains a national seismic-monitoring network and records earthquake epicentres, allowing for mapping of “Natural Risk Zones” including earthquake-hazard zones.
A recent national risk assessment for Cyprus shows that earthquakes are one of the main hazards for the island (in terms of population affected and financial losses).
What to take into account now • Because a recent quake occurred near Paphos, there is heightened likelihood of aftershocks. While large scale damage is unlikely for moderate events, residual seismic activity should be expected.
• Buildings and infrastructure in zones of higher hazard (coastal southern areas) should be especially monitored. The GSD’s hazard mapping underscores that those zones have higher expected ground motions.
• The risk isn’t just from ground shaking. Secondary hazards—like soil amplification, landslides (in hilly terrain), or even tsunami risk in offshore quakes—are relevant given Cyprus’ tectonic setting.
Advice
• If you’re in or near Paphos, Limassol, or other southern/coastal parts of Cyprus: remain alert for aftershocks, secure loose objects, check your building safety (especially if older).
• Stay tuned to official announcements from the GSD and local civil-protection authorities.
• If you’re inland or in a lower-hazard zone, while less at risk of extreme shaking, the event still reinforces that earthquakes are a real and recurring hazard on the island.
• Consider preparing basic earthquake-safety steps: know your safe spots in a building (under a strong table, away from glass), make sure your emergency kit is ready, know evacuation routes.
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