A 5.4-magnitude earthquake rattles cities off the coast of Portugal but leaves no casualties in its wake.
A 5.4-magnitude earthquake rattles cities off the coast of Portugal
A 5.4-magnitude earthquake rattles cities off the coast of Portugal but leaves no casualties in its wake.
Early on Monday morning, a powerful 5.4-magnitude earthquake off the coast of Portugal caused vibrations in a number of coastal cities, including the nation's capital, Lisbon. Despite the earthquake's power, no injuries have been recorded, and authorities are keeping a careful eye on the situation.
The earthquake was detected by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) at precisely 5:11 a.m. local time. About 32 miles west of Sines, a seaside community well-known for its fishing sector and stunning beaches, was where the epicenter was situated. The vast but generally moderate shaking felt on land was caused by an earthquake that began almost 11 miles below the ocean's surface.
Tremors in the early morning woke residents
The abrupt shock woke up a lot of people near Portugal's coast. People in Lisbon reported hearing things rattle on shelves and feeling their homes tremble. Lisbon's historic area inhabitant Maria Silva related her experience: "I was asleep when I felt the bed move. I initially believed it to be a large truck going by, but I later understood it was something more dangerous. Although frightening, it ended really quickly.
The shaking was more noticeable at Sines, which was nearer the epicenter of the earthquake. Local fisherman João Ferreira recounted the incident as follows: "I was getting ready to go out to sea when everything started to shake. The equipment was falling from the shelves and boats were shaking in the harbor. Although it wasn't very strong, it passed quickly.
Following Shocks and Continued Observation
At least four weak aftershocks were reported by Portugal's Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere after the first earthquake. These lesser earthquakes didn't create any more disruptions because they were so mild in intensity. Aftershocks are typical after a major seismic event, according to experts, since the earth's crust responds to the changes in tension and pressure.
According to Dr. Ana Rodrigues, a seismologist, aftershocks are a typical aspect of the seismic process. A major event such as this one is likely to be followed by several lesser ones. Although our experts are keeping a careful eye on the situation, no signs of any more large earthquakes have been seen thus far."
Alert for Emergency Services; no damage reported
Even at this early hour, emergency personnel were quick to respond to the situation. Teams were sent out to evaluate any possible damage and help any impacted residents. According to preliminary reports, there was no structural damage to any of the coastal infrastructure or buildings.
In a statement, the National Civil Protection Authority reassured the public that all necessary precautions were being taken to guarantee their safety. "Our staff have inspected the impacted locations thoroughly. We are happy to announce that there have been no serious injuries or losses. The message said, "We urge locals to maintain their composure and pay attention to any information from authorized sources.
A Recap of the Seismic History of Portugal
Portugal has a history of seismic activity since it is situated close to the border between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. The most well-known incident was the terrible Lisbon earthquake of 1755, which resulted in extensive damage and fatalities. Improved monitoring systems and contemporary building rules have greatly raised the nation's readiness for such calamities.
"Although today's earthquake was significant, the risks associated with such events have been greatly reduced by our improved understanding of seismic activity and better construction standards," Dr. Rodrigues continued. It's critical that locals remain knowledgeable and understand what to do both during and after an earthquake."
Public Is Encouraged to Remain Prepared and Informed
Authorities are taking advantage of this occasion to urge people to be prepared for earthquakes. During such occurrences, small actions like securing heavy furniture, having an emergency kit ready, and being aware of safe spaces in homes and workplaces can make a great impact.
To make sure that locals feel informed and safe, local government and media sources keep up with updates and information. As the day wears on, life along Portugal's stunning coast is gradually getting back to normal. The situation is still stable.
Residents are advised to pay attention to any advice given by authorities and to monitor official channels for updates and more information.
Max Hauptman reported this story for USA TODAY.
About the Creator
Sunil Christian
find here all type of news
Keep reading
More stories from Sunil Christian and writers in Earth and other communities.
Florida Braces for Another Hurricane as Recovery from Helene Continues
Florida Braces for Another Hurricane as Recovery from Helene Continues Florida residents are being urged to prepare for another hurricane just days after the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. With communities still recovering from the wreckage left behind by the Category 4 storm, which struck the state on September 26, leaving 20 people dead and thousands without power, the arrival of Tropical Storm Milton poses a new threat. Helene’s path of destruction, stretching over 500 miles, brought catastrophic flooding and powerful winds, and now Floridians are facing the possibility of another significant storm hitting the Gulf Coast.
By Sunil Christianabout a year ago in Earth
Images Show Aftermath of Deadly Crash on Thai Railway Line
Some images stay with you long after you scroll past them. The photographs coming out of Thailand this week do exactly that. Twisted steel, overturned train carriages, scattered luggage, and exhausted rescue workers tell a devastating story — one that words alone cannot fully explain. A deadly crash on a Thai railway line has claimed multiple lives and left dozens injured, turning an ordinary journey into a nightmare. As images from the scene circulate globally, they reveal not just destruction, but grief, courage, and difficult questions about safety in one of Southeast Asia’s busiest rail networks. A Normal Journey That Ended in Disaster For the passengers on board, the day began like any other. People were heading to work, returning home, or traveling to see family. The train moved steadily along the tracks — until everything suddenly changed. According to officials, the crash occurred when heavy construction equipment collapsed onto an active railway line, striking a moving passenger train. The impact derailed multiple carriages, causing chaos inside the train as metal twisted and windows shattered. Within moments, smoke filled the air and cries for help echoed from inside the wreckage. For many passengers, there was no time to react. What the Images Reveal The aftermath photos are haunting. In some images, train carriages lie on their sides, crushed and burned. In others, rescue teams climb over debris, cutting through metal to reach trapped passengers. Personal belongings — backpacks, shoes, food containers — are scattered across the tracks, quiet reminders of lives abruptly interrupted. One particularly striking image shows emergency workers standing silently beside the wreckage, their faces reflecting exhaustion and sorrow. These visuals do more than document damage; they capture the emotional weight of the tragedy. Images like these remind us how fragile routine can be — how quickly normal life can turn into crisis. The Human Cost of the Crash Authorities confirmed that multiple people lost their lives, while dozens were injured, some critically. Hospitals in nearby areas were quickly overwhelmed as ambulances transported victims from the scene. Families rushed to medical centers, searching for loved ones. For many, the wait for information was agonizing. Phone calls went unanswered. Names were not immediately confirmed. In moments like these, uncertainty can be as painful as loss itself. Survivors have described scenes of panic, confusion, and shock. Some helped fellow passengers escape wrecked carriages. Others waited helplessly, trapped until rescuers could reach them. Rescue Efforts Under Pressure Emergency response teams acted quickly, working against time and unstable conditions. Firefighters, paramedics, and volunteers used cutting tools and heavy machinery to clear wreckage and pull survivors to safety. Despite the dangers, many rescuers worked for hours without rest. Some images show medics kneeling beside injured passengers on the ground, administering care before transport. Others show cranes lifting destroyed train cars away from the tracks. Their efforts likely saved lives — but the scale of the damage made the operation incredibly challenging. How Did This Happen? As the shock begins to settle, attention has turned to how such a catastrophic accident was allowed to occur. Early reports suggest the crash involved construction work taking place near or above an active railway line. This has raised serious concerns about oversight, safety planning, and coordination between construction teams and railway authorities. Questions being asked include: Why was heavy equipment operating so close to a moving passenger train? Were safety inspections properly conducted? Were warning systems or track closures considered? An official investigation is now underway, but for many families, answers will come too late. A Wake-Up Call for Railway Safety Thailand has invested heavily in rail infrastructure in recent years, aiming to modernize transport and improve connectivity. But this tragedy highlights the risks that come with rapid development when safety measures fail or are ignored. Experts warn that construction near live railway lines requires strict controls, constant monitoring, and zero tolerance for shortcuts. Even a single failure can lead to irreversible consequences — as this crash painfully demonstrates. Public trust in rail safety has been shaken, and restoring it will require transparency, accountability, and meaningful reform. Grief, Solidarity, and Remembrance In the days following the crash, communities across Thailand have expressed sorrow and support. Vigils have been held. Messages of condolence continue to pour in. Volunteers have donated blood and supplies to help victims and hospitals. The images from the scene have united people in grief — not just in Thailand, but around the world. They serve as a reminder that behind every headline are real people, real families, and real loss.
By Muhammad Hassan6 days ago in Earth
Trump Administration Moves to End Deportation Protection for Somalis
The Trump administration has moved to end long-standing deportation protections for Somali nationals living in the United States, a decision that could place tens of thousands of people at risk of removal. The move has sparked alarm among immigrant communities, human rights organizations, and legal experts, who warn that returning Somalis to a country still grappling with instability could have severe humanitarian consequences. As the policy change unfolds, it has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, executive authority, and America’s obligations to people fleeing conflict.
By Aarif Lashari6 days ago in Earth
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.