El Salvador: A magnitude-4.7 offshore earthquake occurs south of Sonsonate Department at around 10:28 Dec. 27

A magnitude-4.7 offshore earthquake occurred in the Pacific Ocean southwest of El Salvador at around 10:28 Dec. 27. The epicenter was about 26 km (16 miles) southwest of Acajutla, in the Sonsonate Department of El Salvador. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 77 km (48 miles), and shaking was probably felt throughout much of El Salvador, southern and central Guatemala, and western Honduras. Initial reports indicate at least three people were injured due to the collapse of a structure under construction, in Los Chorros, next to the Pan American Highway; however, 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, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.