28 Feb 2023 | 08:40 PM UTC
Central America: Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs off coasts of Guatemala and El Salvador at around 13:44 CST Feb. 28
Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs off coasts of Guatemala and El Salvador at 13:44 CST Feb. 28. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred off the coasts of Guatemala and El Salvador at around 13:44 CST Feb. 28. The epicenter was about 45 km (28 miles) south of Puerto San Jose, Guatemala. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 62 km (38 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of southern Guatemala and western and central El Salvador. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. 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 where shaking occurred.
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.
