4.4 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Albufeira and Faro - What You Need to Know!

Earthquake Felt in Albufeira and Faro

A 4.4 magnitude earthquake was felt today, particularly in Albufeira and Faro, with no reported personal injuries or material damage, according to the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA).

The earthquake's epicenter was located about 75 kilometers south of Faro and was recorded at 05:18 by the mainland seismic network stations.

This tremor was felt with a maximum intensity of III/IV on the Modified Mercalli Scale in the municipalities of Albufeira and Faro.

Lesser Tremors in Loulé

The earthquake was also felt with lesser intensity in Loulé, located in the Faro district.

Understanding Earthquake Magnitudes

Earthquakes are classified based on their magnitude as follows:

• Micro: less than 2.0
• Very small: 2.0-2.9
• Small: 3.0-3.9
• Light: 4.0-4.9
• Moderate: 5.0-5.9
• Strong: 6.0-6.9
• Major: 7.0-7.9
• Great: 8.0-8.9
• Exceptional: 9.0-9.9
• Extreme: above 10

The Modified Mercalli Scale measures the "degrees of intensity and respective description" of an earthquake.

What to Expect with Intensity III and IV

With an intensity of III, considered weak, the tremor is felt indoors and hanging objects sway, resembling a "vibration similar to that caused by heavy vehicles passing by," as noted by the IPMA on their website.

An intensity of IV (moderate) and V (strong) means that the vibration is similar to that caused by passing vehicles, parked cars shake, windows and doors rattle, and it can be felt outside the home.