Strong 4.7 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Lisbon and Surrounding Areas

Earthquake Details

A 4.7 magnitude earthquake was recorded on Monday, February 17th, affecting the Lisbon region, including Setúbal, Portimão, and Vila Nova de Santo André. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and the Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) confirmed the event, which originated off the coast of Seixal at a depth of 1 kilometer around 1:24 PM.

Widespread Impact

Reports indicate that the tremor was felt widely across the region, with residents in Lisbon and other nearby towns experiencing the quake. The IPMA issued a statement confirming the registration of the seismic event in the national seismic network, specifying the epicenter was located 14 kilometers west-southwest of Seixal. A follow-up communication is expected to provide updated instrumental and macroseismic information.

Magnitude Discrepancies

Initially, the EMSC estimated the quake's magnitude at 4.9, but subsequent updates from the IPMA confirmed it as 4.7. Some sources suggested a lower magnitude of 4.2. These variances are typical, as determining an earthquake's epicenter involves complex physical and mathematical processes that can lead to slightly different results from various agencies.

Historical Context

This earthquake follows a 5.3 magnitude tremor that struck Portugal, Spain, Gibraltar, and Morocco about six months ago, illustrating the region's seismic activity.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.