A magnitude 5.5 earthquake causes concern in the Santiago region and surrounding areas.

The region of Santiago and its surroundings woke up this morning with an unusual sense of unease, following a 5.5 magnitude earthquake that occurred off the coast of Lisbon, Portugal. The tremor, which happened at 6:11 AM, was felt over a wide geographical area, from Pontecesures to Milladoiro, affecting several municipalities in the region. Although no material damage or injuries were reported, the event generated concern and uncertainty among residents who were in their homes at the time of the shake. According to the National Geographic Institute (IGN), the earthquake's epicenter was located in the Atlantic Ocean, at a depth of 19 kilometers. While such seismic phenomena are not unusual in the region, they can provoke varied reactions among the population. In Pontecesures, some residents confirmed they felt the quake clearly, while in other localities such as Santiago, Vedra, and A Estrada, sensations varied, but the alert was palpable. The community engaged in conversations about what had happened, exchanging opinions and anecdotes about the experience. The fact that an earthquake of this magnitude was felt so far from the epicenter serves as a reminder of the constant tectonic activity in the Iberian Peninsula. Historically, this region has experienced seismic movements that have left a mark on the collective memory of its inhabitants. However, most lower-intensity tremors, like the one this morning, usually pass without major incidents. Nevertheless, the unpredictable nature of these events creates a state of alert that cannot be underestimated. A resident of Padrón, who preferred to remain anonymous, commented that at 6:15 AM he clearly felt a "small earthquake," but he had not noticed any damage in his home. Such testimonies are common after these events, where the most important aspect is the sense of security that can be affected, even if the structures remain intact. The perception of danger can be as strong as the event itself, leading many to reflect on the need to prepare for such eventualities. From a technical standpoint, seismic movements are measured according to the Richter Scale, and in this case, the tremor falls within the range of 5 to 5.6 degrees. According to experts, this range usually causes visible shaking in vegetation and possible minor damage, such as the breaking of fragile objects. However, on this occasion, the region was fortunate not to report significant incidents, which surely relieved many citizens who remembered other earthquakes that did leave more severe consequences. Currently, the scientific community is increasingly equipped to monitor and predict these events, thanks to advanced technology and ongoing research in the field. The IGN and other organizations work to provide updated and accurate information, which is crucial for keeping the population informed and prepared. In this sense, education on how to react during an earthquake remains fundamental for citizens to know how to act in case of a major eventuality. Calm returned to the region as the day progressed, and citizens resumed their daily activities. However, some could not avoid the dominant topic of conversation in morning chats: the earthquake. Social media also filled with comments and reactions, reflecting the unease and curiosity generated by the phenomenon. In an increasingly interconnected world, experiences of this kind spread rapidly, fueling interest in geology and seismology. The experience of this day not only highlights the region's vulnerability to seismic events but also the strength of the community coming together in times of uncertainty. The ability to adapt and cope with fear is a sign of resilience that characterizes many populations that have had to deal with natural phenomena throughout history. The spirit of solidarity and mutual support manifests itself in situations like this, where what truly matters is the well-being of all. As investigations and analyses regarding the earthquake begin, experts will continue to evaluate the impact of this and other phenomena in the region. The information gathered will allow authorities and the general population to be better prepared for the future. Thus, while calm may return for the moment, preparation and awareness of seismic activity will remain a priority for all inhabitants of the region.