Portugal coast near Lisbon hit by 5.3 magnitude earthquake

The coast of Portugal was hit by an earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 5.3 on the Richter scale on Monday, authorities have said.

The US Geophysical Institute (USGS) and the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Centre said the quake hit waters 7.7km south-east of the capital, Lisbon .

It was felt most intensely in the Sines, Lisbon and Setúbal areas but tremors were felt as far as Porto and Spani.

The earthquake hit at 5.11am local time, according to the Portuguese Sea and Atmosphere Institute (IPMA).

"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).

Monday’s quake was the strongest to hit the country since 2009, when a 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck the south coast, Euronews reported.

According to Mr Miranda, 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.

The earthquake hit when large numbers of tourists , including Britons, are visiting Portugal during the summer holidays.