A magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck off the coast of Egypt early Monday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The quake occurred at 3 a.m. local time (0000 GMT) approximately 22 miles (36 kilometers) northeast of the seaport city of Suez.

The German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) measured the earthquake at magnitude 5.4 and recorded its depth at 6 miles (10 kilometers). The Egyptian Red Crescent announced it had activated its emergency response plan in the governorates where the tremors were felt.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or property damage. Humanitarian organizations urged residents to avoid buildings showing signs of structural damage.

Damaging earthquakes are uncommon in the northeast African country. Its deadliest earthquake in modern history struck in October 1992, when a 5.8-magnitude quake shook the capital, Cairo, killing more than 500 people and displacing thousands.

Source: www.dw.com