If you are going on holiday to Portugal, it is worth knowing that earthquakes sometimes occur in this country. What causes this? Are earthquakes in Portugal strong and dangerous? Are Portuguese cities protected? How to behave during an earthquake? You will learn all this from the following reading.
Causes of earthquakes in Portugal
The fact is that Portugal is located in a seismic hazard zone. Earthquakes in Portugal, especially in the Lisbon region, are related to the country’s location at the junction of tectonic plates. Portugal lies near the boundary between the Eurasian and African plates, which makes the region prone to seismic activity. The most famous earthquake in Portuguese history was the Lisbon earthquake of 1755, which had catastrophic consequences, destroying much of the city and triggering a huge tsunami. It had an estimated magnitude of 8.5-9 and is estimated to have killed around 30,000-50,000 people.
Are earthquakes in Portugal strong and dangerous?
Earthquakes in Portugal can be strong and dangerous, although they are not very frequent. The country is located near a tectonic plate interface, which means it is prone to earthquakes. The Azores and Madeira Islands and the southern part of Portugal, including the Algarve, are in the danger zone. In recent years, Portugal has experienced several moderate earthquakes that were not as devastating as those in the past, but can still pose a risk. For example, in 1969, a 7.9 magnitude quake occurred off the coast of the Algarve, but the damage was relatively minor.
Although earthquakes in Portugal are not as frequent as in other seismically active regions, such as Japan or Chile, they can be serious. The greatest risk is in the southern and island regions. Despite this, in most cases, Portuguese residents do not experience regular, strong earthquakes.
Are Portuguese cities safe from earthquakes?
Since the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, Lisbon and Portugal have been taking steps to better prepare for potential earthquakes. The city has been rebuilt with new building codes in mind, designed to make buildings more resistant to shocks. Modern construction in Lisbon must meet strict seismic standards. City authorities regularly conduct drills and awareness campaigns to educate residents on what to do in the event of an earthquake.
Despite these measures, full earthquake protection is difficult, as the strength and location of an earthquake are difficult to predict. As a result, there is still some risk, but Lisbon is much better prepared than in the past. City and national authorities continue to work on improving infrastructure and early warning systems to minimize potential losses in the future.
How to behave during an earthquake in Lisbon?
During an earthquake, it is important to stay calm and take appropriate steps to increase your safety. Here are some recommendations on how to behave:
Inside a building:
- Find a safe place. Take shelter under a sturdy table, desk or other piece of furniture that will protect you from falling objects. If this is not possible, sit against an interior wall away from windows, external doors and other potential hazards.
- Protect yourself. Protect your head and neck with your hands or anything you have at hand, such as a pillow or book. Stay where you are, do not try to escape outside, as this can be more dangerous.
- Avoid danger zones: Stay away from windows, mirrors, glass doors and shelves that can fall and injure you.
Outside:
- Move away from buildings: Find an open, safe place away from buildings, trees, electricity poles and bridges.
- Avoid dangerous objects: Don’t stand under buildings, power lines or bridges, as they may collapse.
- Protect yourself from falling objects: If there is no safe place nearby, try to protect your head with your hands.
In the car:
- Stop the vehicle. Pull over to the side of the road and pull over in a safe place, away from bridges, overpasses and power lines.
- Stay in the car: Stay in the car until the quake is over. A car can provide some protection from falling objects.
After the earthquake:
- Check that everyone is safe: Assess the situation and help anyone who is injured.
- Avoid using elevators: If you are inside a building, exit using the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Watch for aftershocks: More aftershocks may occur, so stay alert and avoid risky areas.
Remember to always have an emergency survival kit ready. It should include water, food, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and other essentials.
From the diary of life in Portugal
Earthquake in Lisbon 18.01.2018
This is my next earthquake in Lisbon, another one that I DIDN’T FEEL. The action took place in the office, colleagues sitting close to me suddenly grabbed their desks and started commenting loudly that the building was shaking. The team leader turned pale. I said that I didn’t feel anything. At that moment, my colleague pointed to a picture on the wall that was swinging vigorously. I thought it was some office joke, but a moment later, concerned colleagues from another department appeared to comment on the unusual incident. If I had to evacuate from the ninth floor… Well, my chances are small.
Earthquake in Lisbon 26.08.2024
On Monday, August 26, at 5:11 a.m., the southwestern part of Portugal was hit by an earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale. At that time, I was still sleeping soundly and was woken up by my own bed, literally strongly moving left and right…
