A 5.5 magnitude earthquake shakes southern Portugal and is felt in Spain and Morocco.

In the early hours of this Monday, a 5.5 magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale surprised the residents of southern Portugal, especially those in the capital, Lisbon. The seismic event was recorded at 6:11 AM (Spanish peninsular time), at a depth of 19 kilometers, according to the report from the National Geographic Institute (IGN). This natural phenomenon has generated concern not only in Portuguese territory but has also been felt in various regions of Spain and Morocco. Initial reports indicate that the earthquake's epicenter was in the Atlantic Ocean, prompting a rapid mobilization of emergency services and Civil Protection in Portugal. Despite the magnitude of the quake, the first hours following the event reported no significant material damage or casualties, bringing a sigh of relief to authorities and the affected population. This contrasts with the experience of other earthquakes in the region, where devastating effects have left a deep mark on entire communities. The response from the Civil Protection service was swift. Operatives began receiving reports from citizens who felt the tremor in various areas of Lisbon and in the Setúbal district. On social media, testimonies from people across the country revealed a feeling of unease but also curiosity about a natural phenomenon that, while recurring, remains impactful for many. The fact that the earthquake was felt in several regions of Spain, particularly in Huelva, and in some areas of Morocco, underscores the importance of seismic monitoring in the Iberian Peninsula. The proximity of these countries to the Atlantic Ocean and their geological location means that events like this are part of the region's natural context. However, the interconnectedness of these territories also highlights the need for well-coordinated emergency plans among neighboring nations. Seismology experts have noted that while a 5.5 earthquake can be considered moderate, its impact can vary significantly depending on factors such as depth, distance from the epicenter to populated areas, and the quality of infrastructure in the affected regions. So far, preliminary reports have indicated that, despite initial fears, the infrastructure in Lisbon has withstood the event without major complications. The scientific community has also begun to analyze the phenomenon from a broader perspective. Researchers emphasize the importance of disaster preparedness, both in Portugal and in neighboring countries. Education and awareness about how to act during an earthquake are key elements to mitigate risks in the future. As more data is gathered about this quake, recommendations are expected to emerge to improve community resilience against tremors. In the context of the region's seismic history, earthquakes in Portugal are not an isolated occurrence. The country has faced seismic events throughout its history, the most devastating being the great earthquake of 1755, which destroyed much of Lisbon. This and other events have led to the implementation of strict building regulations and a greater focus on seismic research, aiming to protect the population and reduce associated risks. Local media have been extensively covering the news, providing updates as events unfold. Additionally, communication channels have been opened for citizens to report any potential damage that may have gone unnoticed in the initial hours. Solidarity among citizens has become evident, with many offering their help to those who may have been impacted by the tremor. As the day progresses, unease about the quake lingers in the air. Although the first hours have passed without reports of serious damage, the experience of living through an earthquake, no matter how mild, leaves an emotional mark on people. The uncertainty of natural phenomena reminds us of the fragility of our lives and the need to be prepared to face the unexpected. Meanwhile, authorities will continue to monitor the situation and keep the public informed about any relevant developments.