Earthquakes are a common threat in Guatemala, a country located on several active fault lines. On Tuesday evening, people in Jerez, El Adelanto, and Comapa felt the ground shaking beneath them as multiple strong earthquakes hit the southern part of the country. Here’s a simple explanation of what happened and what it means for the people living there.
What Happened in Guatemala?
On Tuesday night, three noticeable earthquakes shook parts of southern Guatemala. The strongest one measured 5.6 in magnitude and happened near Jerez. It was followed by a 5.3-magnitude quake near El Adelanto and another tremor of 4.8 magnitude close to Comapa. All of these earthquakes happened within a short time and were shallow in depth, which means they were felt more strongly on the surface.
Where Did the Earthquakes Strike?
The biggest earthquake struck just 3 kilometers from Jerez, while the others happened near El Adelanto and Comapa. These towns are in the southern part of Guatemala and are known to be earthquake-prone due to nearby fault lines. People in surrounding towns also reported feeling the tremors.
How Strong Were the Earthquakes?
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake near Jerez had a magnitude of 5.6 and happened about 7.7 kilometers below the earth’s surface. The ones near El Adelanto and Comapa were slightly weaker but still strong enough to be felt. Because the earthquakes were shallow, the shaking was stronger in areas close to the center of each quake.
Were There Any Damages or Injuries?
As of now, there are no major reports of injuries or serious damage. Some residents felt their homes shake and reported minor effects, but emergency services have not ordered any evacuations. The USGS stated that the risk of landslides or ground liquefaction is low.
How Did People React?
Many residents sent in reports describing how the ground moved and how long the shaking lasted. The USGS uses these community reports to better understand how widely an earthquake was felt. More than 30 people reported feeling the tremor in Jerez, and at least five reports came in from El Adelanto.
Why Does Guatemala Get So Many Earthquakes?
Guatemala lies on the boundary between several tectonic plates, which makes it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in Central America. Small quakes happen regularly, and larger ones occur from time to time, reminding residents of the need to be prepared.
What Should People Do Now?
Authorities are keeping an eye on the area for aftershocks, which are smaller earthquakes that happen after a major one. People are advised to stay alert, especially if they live in older buildings or near hillsides where landslides can occur. It’s also important to have an emergency kit and know what to do during and after an earthquake.
The recent earthquakes in Jerez, El Adelanto, and Comapa are another sign of Guatemala’s natural vulnerability to seismic activity. While no serious damage has been reported, the situation is being closely watched. Staying informed and prepared is the best way for communities to stay safe when the ground shakes again.
