Nicaragua: A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs off Managua Department at around 07:57 Jan. 4

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the Pacific Ocean off the west coast of Nicaragua at around 07:57 Jan. 4. The epicenter was about 50 km (31 miles) southwest of Managua, Managua Department. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 66 km (41 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of western and central Nicaragua, southern Honduras, southeastern El Salvador, and northwestern Costa Rica. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, 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.