Background on Guatemala’s Recent Seismic Activity
Guatemala, a Central American nation, has experienced significant seismic activity since July 8th. A 5.7 magnitude earthquake on that date resulted in seven fatalities, sparking heightened awareness and concern.
Recent Earthquakes
On Tuesday, Guatemala was struck by two earthquakes measuring 5.6 and 5.3 on the Richter scale, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). These tremors were also felt in El Salvador, prompting evacuations in Guatemala City despite the absence of casualties.
- The earthquakes occurred between 3:21 PM and 3:25 PM local time (7:21 PM and 7:25 PM GMT).
- A 4.8 magnitude aftershock was recorded shortly after by the USGS.
Government Response and Public Reaction
Guatemala’s President, Bernardo Arévalo, urged citizens to “remain calm” and adhere to evacuation protocols following the earthquakes.
Nuestros equipos ya están evaluando los efectos de estos temblores. Reiteramos nuestra atención y cuidado a la población.
— Bernardo Arévalo (@BernardoAre) July 12, 2022
President Arévalo’s teams are currently assessing the impact of these earthquakes, as he expressed on social media.
Impact and Reach
The earthquakes were felt not only in Guatemala but also in western Honduras, highlighting the extensive reach of this seismic activity.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the recent earthquakes’ magnitudes? The recent earthquakes measured 5.6 and 5.3 on the Richter scale.
- When did these earthquakes occur? The earthquakes struck between 3:21 PM and 3:25 PM local time (7:21 PM and 7:25 PM GMT) on Tuesday.
- Were there any casualties? No fatalities were reported following these earthquakes, although they prompted evacuations in Guatemala City.
- What is the extent of the seismic activity in Guatemala? Since July 8th, Guatemala has experienced significant seismic activity, including a 5.7 magnitude earthquake that resulted in seven fatalities.
- How is the government responding? Guatemala’s President, Bernardo Arévalo, has urged citizens to remain calm and follow evacuation protocols.
- Which neighboring countries felt the earthquakes? The earthquakes were also felt in El Salvador and western Honduras.
