Residents of northern and central Israel reported feeling an earthquake on Wednesday, Israeli media reported.

The Geological Institute reported that the earthquake felt by northern residents had a magnitude of 3.8 on the Richter scale, and occurred at a depth of approximately 17 km. 

There were reports that the earthquake was felt in Tiberias, the Jordan Valley, Karmiel, Haifa, and the Hadera area. Some felt the earthquake even further south in areas such as Rehovot and Modi'in. 

Statement from Haifa's municipality 

The Haifa municipality issued a statement, saying "A short time ago, an earthquake occurred in the Sea of Galilee but was also felt in Haifa. So far, no damage has been reported."
Displaced teenagers who were evacuated from moshav Dishon near Israel's border with Lebanon, play by the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel, November 20, 2023. (credit: ATHIT PERAWONGMETHA / REUTERS)
Displaced teenagers who were evacuated from moshav Dishon near Israel's border with Lebanon, play by the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel, November 20, 2023. (credit: ATHIT PERAWONGMETHA / REUTERS)
"Earthquake alerts were activated in three schools in the city of Haifa. The students were quickly and safely evacuated from the school buildings, and after examining the surroundings and receiving the approval from security guards, the students returned to their studies."