Guatemala: 6.8-magnitude earthquake hits off southern coast June 22

Event

A powerful offshore earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 on the Richter scale struck off the Pacific coast of Guatemala at 06:31 (local time) on Thursday, June 22. The epicenter is situated approximately 25 km (15 mi) southwest of Puerto San José, located in the extreme south of the country (Escuintla department). According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, there is no risk of tsunami. 

No reports of damages or casualties have emerged at this early stage but given the magnitude of the earthquake significant destruction is possible.

Context

Guatemala is located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” and earthquakes strike the country relatively frequently. Thrusday’s quake comes just over a week after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the southwestern coast on June 14. The epicenter was located approximately 8 km (5 mi) southwest of Tajumulco (San Marcos department) and resulted in several deaths and material damage, as well as provoking landslides that blocked highways.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to closely monitor the situation, to adhere to any instructions or advice issued by the local authorities, and to be prepared for aftershocks.