A moderate 5.4-magnitude earthquake has struck the Atlantic Ocean off Portugal, making it the strongest earthquake in the region in 15 years, according to seismologists. Shaking was felt in Lisbon and as far away as Morocco.
The earthquake, which struck at 5:11 a.m. local time on Monday, was centered in the ocean about 64 kilometers (40 miles) southwest of Sesimbra, or 85 kilometers (53 miles) southwest of the capital city.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said Monday’s tremor had a magnitude of 5.4 and struck about 17 kilometers (10 miles) below the seabed, making it a shallow earthquake. Portugal’s seismological agency, IPMA, put the magnitude at 5.3.
Tremors Felt Across the Region
Shaking was felt across the region, including in Lisbon and other nearby cities where scores of people said the tremors were strong enough to wake them.
“We are located on the ground floor apartment and the entire building shook above us and the floor below us felt like it was sinking. Our dogs woke up and were freaking out,” Keira McCann told BNO News. “We did not expect to experience this in Portugal.”
Vera Fassbender also described the tremor, saying: “I live in Lisbon and felt it shaking for 3-5 seconds. I am on the 8th floor. It was a light shaking but very noticeable and also a bit scary!”
The earthquake was also felt in parts of Morocco, including in the Casablanca area.
“Initially thought I was just shaking while sleeping until my brother rushed to properly wake me up and tell me that he felt it too,” Rimah Oubella in Casablanca said. “Not too strong of a shake but enough for the bed and my body to move.”
No Major Damage or Injuries Reported
There were no immediate reports of serious damage or injuries. There is no threat of a tsunami.
Monday’s quake was the strongest to hit along the coast of Portugal since 2009, when a 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast. One of the worst disasters happened in 1755, when a powerful earthquake killed up to 50,000 people, including 10,000 in Morocco.
Portugal’s Seismically Active History
The southern offshore region of Portugal is sandwiched between the Eurasian and Nubian tectonic plates, with active offshore faults in that area credited for most of the earthquakes recorded in the country, according to Lisbon Earthquake Museum.
Active faults also exist inside mainland Portugal, and these can generate quite destructive earthquakes. Some faults inside Portugal have yet to be discovered and studied.
Lisbon has been affected by quakes throughout its history, with some of great magnitude and intensity. A quake on November 1, 1755, destroyed much of the city and triggered huge tsunami waves.
The 1755 quake is credited as marking the beginning of the study of seismology as it led to earthquakes being studied more scientifically.
A Wake-Up Call
While this earthquake thankfully did not cause any major damage, it serves as a reminder of the seismic activity that Portugal is prone to. The country’s history is marked by earthquakes, some of which have been devastating. This latest event highlights the need for preparedness and awareness of potential risks.
As Portugal continues to develop and grow, understanding and mitigating the risks associated with earthquakes becomes increasingly crucial. This event underscores the importance of ongoing research, investment in infrastructure, and public education to ensure the safety and resilience of the country in the face of future seismic events.
