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09 Jan 2025 | 05:12 PM UTC

El Salvador: Magnitude-5.8 earthquake occurs in southwest of country at around 10:31 Jan. 9

Magnitude-5.8 earthquake occurs in southwestern El Salvador at around 10:31 Jan. 9. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.

Informational

A magnitude-5.8 earthquake occurred in southwestern El Salvador at around 10:31 Jan. 9. The epicenter was about 9 km (6 miles) east of Acajutla, El Salvador. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 95 km (59 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of El Salvador, Guatemala, and western Honduras. 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.

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.