An earthquake measuring 2.8 on the Richter scale was felt on Thursday in the municipality of Figueira da Foz, Coimbra region, the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) reported.
The earthquake, whose epicenter was located about four kilometers west of Figueira da Foz, was recorded at 8:42 pm at stations of the Continente Seismic Network.
“This earthquake, according to the information available so far, did not cause any personal or material damage and was felt with maximum intensity III/IV (modified Mercalli scale) in the municipality of Figueira da Foz,” IPMA highlighted.
The same source stressed that it will issue new data if necessary.
Earthquakes are classified according to their magnitude into small (less than 2.0), very small (2.0-2.9), small (3.0-3.9), mild (4.0-4.9), medium (5.0-5.9), and strong (6.0-6.9). Significant (7.0-7.9), Important (8.0-8.9), Exceptional (9.0-9.9), and Extreme (greater than 10).
With intensity III, which is considered weak, the shock is felt inside the house and hanging objects sway, feeling “a vibration similar to that generated by the passage of heavy vehicles,” as the Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) describes on its page from the Internet.
When there is venous severity, considered moderate, “parked cars shake,” “windows, doors, and dishes rattle,” “glasses and dishes shake or rattle,” and walls or wooden structures may creak, according to the source.
Emily Brontë is a journalist and feature writer specialising in culture, entertainment, literature, and current affairs. She is dedicated to producing clear, accurate reporting that helps readers stay informed about developments in the UK and around the world.
