5.4 magnitude earthquake rocks Lisbon, Portugal coastline
earthquake
LISBON: (Web Desk) A powerful 5.4 magnitude earthquake rocked southern Portugal as the tremors were felt intensely, particularly in Sines, Lisbon, and Setúbal.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake struck at 5:11 a.m. local time with its epicenter located approximately 58 km west of the coastal town of Sines.

The tremors were felt intensely across several regions. However, reports flooded social media from individuals in Porto, and even further in Spain and Morocco. There was no injuries despite the widespread shaking.

Portugal emerged largely unscathed from the event, which is a relief after the early morning jolt.

Portugal’s Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) also confirmed that at least four minor aftershocks followed the initial quake, though their intensity was minimal.

"We received a lot of calls, especially from people who wanted to know what was going on and what they should do. At this time (6:00 am local time) we still haven’t managed to count the number of calls received," said Commander José Miranda from the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC).

Miranda said that there are no reports of victims or major damage at this time.

"We only have information at this time about a situation in a street in Sesimbra in which possible cracks in buildings are being assessed," he added.

In a statement issued Monday morning, the Portuguese government said it was "in close coordination with all the relevant services" following the earthquake.