Macroseismic data of earthquakes felt in Israel and also recorded instrumentally are analyzed. The analysis yields the following empirical relations: whereM is the local magnitude, Î is the expected seismic intensity (MSK-scale), R is the epicentral distance, I _tE is the average seismic intensity in the focal area (within 20 km), andD is the radius of the area in which seismic intensities of grade III or more were observed, is the one standard deviation.

Using macroseismic observations in Israel following distant-earthquakes and by using the empirical attenuation function (see above), an attempt is made to identify areas within Israel with unusual response. The results indicate a poor correlation between the intensity response of a site and its geological and geotechnical properties.