Which area of Portugal has the highest seismic risk?
The Algarve and the Lisbon/Tagus Valley region are historically the highest seismic-risk zones in Mainland Portugal, due to their proximity to the Horseshoe Fault and the Lower Tagus Valley Fault.
How often do earthquakes occur in Portugal?
Mainland Portugal records several dozen earthquakes per month, the majority with magnitudes below 2.5 and imperceptible without instruments. Moderate earthquakes (M3–M4) occur a few times a year.
What should I do during an earthquake in Portugal?
Take shelter under a sturdy table or next to an interior wall. Move away from windows and objects that could fall. Do not use lifts. After the shaking stops, check for structural damage before re-entering the building.
How is seismic risk monitored in Portugal?
IPMA (Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere) operates the national seismic network. Tremr aggregates real-time data from EMSC (European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre) for immediate information.