According to preliminary information from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA), the tremor occurred during the early hours of the morning, surprising many residents. Although it is not considered a major earthquake, the quake was strongly felt by the population, with reports of window vibrations, furniture shaking, and a sensation of building oscillation.
When questioned by LUSA, a spokesperson for the National Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) stated that, up until now, no notifications of victims or significant damage have been received. However, the municipalities of Mafra, Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, and surrounding areas remain on alert to detect any potential cracks, plaster falls, or other impacts caused by the earthquake.
According to seismology experts, an earthquake of magnitude 4.0 releases enough energy to be clearly felt by people, but it rarely causes significant structural damage. However, the experience can be disturbing, especially in densely populated urban areas.
“The Portuguese territory is located near the border between the Eurasian and African tectonic plates, which makes it susceptible to seismic activity. An earthquake of magnitude 4.0 can cause strong tremors and generate some concern, without, however, corresponding to a high risk of widespread destruction,” explained a technician from IPMA.
