Earthquake of 4.8 shakes the Levant and reignites fears in Syria and Lebanon.

A magnitude 4.8 earthquake shook the Levant region, affecting the inhabitants of Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. The tremor was strongly felt, rekindling painful memories among residents, especially in northern Syria, where the trauma from last year’s devastating earthquake remains present in the collective memory. This new seismic event occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, with its epicenter located near the city of Hama, according to reports from the Syrian official news agency (SANA). Fear gripped many in Syria, where the memory of last year's quake, which resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and massive devastation, still lingers. In the city of Azaz, an area that has faced multiple crises in recent years, residents expressed their distress, feeling the aftermath of the past resurface with the new quake. "It was a terrifying moment; I remembered what we went through last year," commented a resident, emphasizing the emotional impact that such earthquakes have on a population already affected by years of conflict. The Syrian Civil Defense Organization, which operates in opposition-controlled areas, quickly activated its emergency protocol. Teams were deployed to various zones to assess the situation and be prepared for any eventuality. Despite the mobilization of rescuers, no significant damage or casualties have been reported so far, which has alleviated the population's anxiety for the time being. In Lebanon, the tremor was also felt and provoked reactions of concern among the populace. Many residents rushed out of their homes, seeking safety in the streets out of fear of a possible disaster. Social media was flooded with messages of worry, with users sharing their experiences and seeking information about the magnitude of the quake. The National Seismological Center initially reported a magnitude of 5.46 but later revised this figure to 4.8, a change that has sparked discussions about the accuracy and speed of seismic reports in the region. Experts have reminded that earthquakes can be unpredictable, making it essential for communities to be prepared to act in case of emergencies. The situation in Syria is particularly delicate, as the country is still in the process of recovery after years of conflict and natural disasters. The infrastructure is fragile, and many buildings are not designed to withstand an earthquake, increasing concerns about potential damage and loss of life in seismic events. The international community has responded with solidarity, highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness in a region that has been hit by multiple crises in the last decade. Humanitarian organizations and governments are working to ensure that effective response plans are implemented and that support is provided to the most vulnerable communities. Meanwhile, the populations of the three affected countries are closely monitoring the situation, hoping that calm will quickly return to their lives. The memory of last year's tragedy serves as a constant reminder of the fragility of life in the face of nature's force. Resilience is key, and communities are coming together to face adversity, supporting each other in times of uncertainty. Earthquakes not only affect physical infrastructure but also impact the mental health of those who experience them. It is essential to address the psychological needs of communities, helping individuals process their experiences and find ways to rebuild their lives after the earth's tremors. As time passes, it is expected that authorities will continue to monitor the situation, conducting assessments and preparing for any possible aftershocks. The hope is that, with adequate preparation and a strong sense of community, the inhabitants of Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon can face these natural challenges with courage and unity.