Nicaragua: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Chinandega Department at around 15:35 Feb. 26

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in western Nicaragua's Chinandega Department at around 15:35 Feb. 26. The epicenter was about 14 km (9 miles) northeast of Jiquilillo, Chinandega Department. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 184 km (114 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of western Nicaragua, southern Honduras, and eastern 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.

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.