The initiative, known as A Terra Treme (The Earth Shakes), encourages people across Portugal to practise three simple actions designed to reduce the risk of injury during an earthquake.

Organised by the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC), the exercise takes place at 11:05 a.m. on Thursday and lasts just one minute.

During that time, participants are asked to drop to the ground, protect their head and neck, and remain in a sheltered position until the shaking stops.

The exercise is open to everyone, including families, schools, businesses and public institutions, and can be carried out wherever participants happen to be.

The annual campaign aims to improve public awareness of earthquake risks and encourage people to prepare before an emergency occurs.

What should you do during an earthquake?

Civil Protection recommends three actions, known in Portuguese as Baixar, Proteger e Aguardar, meaning Drop, Cover and Hold On.

People indoors should get down on their knees to avoid being knocked over, protect their head and neck, and shelter beneath a sturdy table or another suitable protective structure.

They should remain in position until the shaking has stopped.

The authority advises people to stay away from windows, mirrors, hanging objects and furniture that could fall. Running outside during an earthquake can expose people to additional dangers, particularly from falling debris.

Using lifts should also be avoided.

Preparing a household emergency plan is another recommendation. Families are encouraged to identify safer places inside their homes, agree on a meeting point in case they become separated and ensure everyone knows what to do.

Emergency supplies should include drinking water, non-perishable food, a torch, essential medication and other necessary items.

Heavy furniture should be secured to walls, while large objects should be stored on lower shelves to reduce the risk of injury.

Why is Portugal at risk?

Portugal’s geographical position makes parts of the country vulnerable to earthquakes, particularly areas of central and southern mainland Portugal and the Azores.

According to ANEPC, mainland Portugal is affected by tectonic activity associated with the boundary between the Eurasian and African plates.

The country has experienced several destructive earthquakes throughout its history, most notably the Lisbon earthquake of 1 November 1755.

That disaster caused widespread destruction in Lisbon and generated a tsunami that affected coastal communities.

The Algarve is also among the regions with a recognised history of seismic activity. Civil Protection identifies areas including Loulé as having experienced significant historical earthquakes.

The level of damage caused by an earthquake depends on several factors, including its magnitude, depth, distance from the epicentre, local ground conditions and the structural characteristics of buildings.

Earthquakes occurring offshore can also generate tsunamis, creating additional risks for coastal communities.

For residents and visitors in coastal areas, knowing evacuation routes and following official instructions can be particularly important following a strong earthquake.

How can residents participate?

Anyone wishing to take part in the November 5 exercise can register through the official A Terra Treme website.

Participants can also organise the activity independently at home, at work or in schools.

The website provides educational materials, videos and guidance explaining what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Civil Protection encourages families and organisations to use the exercise as an opportunity to review their emergency arrangements and identify potential hazards in their surroundings.

The campaign is intended as a preparedness exercise rather than a warning of an imminent earthquake.

Residents can find further information and practical safety guidance at www.aterratreme.pt.

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