Nicaragua: Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs just offshore of Chinandega Department at around 15:57 Feb. 24

A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred just offshore of Chinandega Department in northwestern Nicaragua at around 15:57 Feb. 24. The epicenter was about 16 km (10 miles) southwest of the city of Chinandega. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 83 km (52 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt throughout parts of western and central Nicaragua, northwestern Costa Rica, southern and central Honduras, and most of El Salvador. 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. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure near 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.