Between 60,000 and 100,000 people died as a result of the catastrophic 1755 event, which encompassed a devastating earthquake and the subsequent tsunami that reached Lisbon.
The Catastrophic 1755 Lisbon Disaster
The Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755, followed by a powerful tsunami, caused immense devastation and a significant loss of life across a wide region. While the precise count of fatalities attributable solely to the tsunami in Lisbon is not definitively isolated, historical estimates reflect the combined impact of both natural disasters.
Casualty Figures
The combined death toll from the earthquake and tsunami ranged between 60,000 and 100,000 people. This staggering figure underscores the immense scale of the catastrophe that struck Portugal and beyond.
The Tsunami's Impact on Lisbon
- Arrival Time: The tsunami reached the shores of Lisbon approximately 20 minutes after the initial destructive earthquake shock. This rapid succession of disasters left little time for evacuation or preparation.
- Devastation: The massive waves inundated the city, sweeping away buildings and people, exacerbating the destruction already caused by the earthquake and the subsequent fires.
Widespread Destruction
The impact of the 1755 disaster was not confined to Lisbon alone. The damage from the powerful earthquake extended significantly, reaching areas as far as north of Granada, Spain. This indicates the widespread seismic activity and its devastating effects across the Iberian Peninsula.
Overview of the 1755 Disaster
The table below summarizes key aspects of this historical catastrophe:
| Event Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Combined Deaths | 60,000 - 100,000 people |
| Tsunami Arrival | Approx. 20 minutes after earthquake |
| Damage Extent | Reached north of Granada, Spain |
| Year | 1755 |
