In the early hours of Monday morning, a 5.3 magnitude earthquake was felt in several regions of mainland Portugal, with the epicenter located 60 km west of Sines. Civil Protection said that, so far, there have been no reports of victims or significant damage. “We call on the population to remain calm,” said the government, stressing the importance of calm in emergency situations like this.
The main quake was followed by three aftershocks, which caused concern among residents in the affected areas. However, the authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and guarantee that they are prepared to respond to any eventuality. Aftershocks are common after a major earthquake and can vary in intensity, so it is crucial to heed the Civil Protection guidelines.
What to do in the event of an earthquake
In earthquake situations, it is vital to know how to act to ensure personal safety and the safety of those around you. Here are some essential tips:
1. During the Earthquake:
- Take cover: Seek shelter under a table or sturdy piece of furniture to protect yourself from falling objects.
- Protect yourself: If you are in bed, lie down, protect your head with a pillow and wait for the tremor to pass.
- Stay away from glass and heavy objects: Try to keep away from glass, windows and heavy or tall objects that could fall.
- Inside a building: If you are in a building, stay on your floor and avoid elevators. Only use the stairs after the shaking has stopped.
2. After the Earthquake:
- Check for injuries: Check whether you or others nearby are injured and provide basic first aid if necessary.
- Exit With Caution: Exit the building carefully after the shaking stops, always using the stairs.
- Stay Informed: Use portable radios or cell phones to get updates from the authorities and follow Civil Protection warnings about possible aftershocks.
- Avoid Risk Areas: Avoid entering damaged buildings until they have been inspected and deemed safe.
See the Red Cross’ complete guide on what to do in the event of an earthquake.
History of earthquakes in Portugal
Seismic events are not unheard of in Portugal, a country situated at the junction of several tectonic plates and therefore susceptible to seismic activity. One of the most devastating incidents was the 1755 earthquake, which struck Lisbon with immense force, causing vast destruction and altering the urban landscape. This event is widely studied as one of the most catastrophic in European history. More recently, in 1969, a 7.9 magnitude earthquake shook the southern region of the country, causing a significant but relatively minor impact compared to the 1755 disaster. These events underline the importance of being prepared and informed about safety procedures in the event of earthquakes. Remember, being prepared not only protects you, but also helps the community to face this adversity with resilience and solidarity. Everyone’s safety depends on cooperation and following established guidelines.
