AN EARTHQUAKE in Portugal measuring 4.9 on the Richter scale was felt in the provinces of Badajoz (Extremadura) and Huelva, Sevilla and Córdoba (Andalucía) this lunchtime (Monday).
According to Portugal's Sea and Atmosphere Institute (IPMA), the quake shook the town of Arraiolos, in the Alentejo region – about 120 kilometres inland and north of Lisbon – at 11.51 local time (12.51 mainland Spain time) and lasted several seconds.
At a magnitude of 4.9, damage is very likely and, although it would not normally be associated with serious destruction or loss of life, would have been clearly felt and frightening for those near the epicentre.
As yet, no injuries have been reported, and emergency services are inspecting the area for damage.
Badajoz city is just a few kilometres from the Portuguese border and the tremor sparked some alarm in the metropolitan area and surrounding towns and villages, but did not cause any damage or injury.
It was little more than a few sharp ground movements in parts of Andalucía, but enough to be noticed by most people either lying down or on foot.
