28 Jul 2022 | 09:58 AM UTC
Nicaragua: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs in the Pacific Ocean coast July 28
Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs off the northwest coast of Nicaragua at around 03:23 CST July 28. No immediate reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in the Pacific Ocean off the northwest coast of Nicaragua at around 03:23 CST July 28. The epicenter was about 45 km (28 miles) southwest of Jiquililo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 57 km (35 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of western and northwestern Nicaragua, central and eastern El Salvador, and southern Honduras. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.