Four earthquakes of magnitude between 4.0 and 4.6 were recorded this Saturday, June 20, off the Pacific coast of Guatemala, according to preliminary reports from the National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh) and the Seismological Service of Guatemala at the Mariano Gálvez University.
The first event was reported by Insivumeh at 11:51 a.m. The earthquake reached a magnitude of 4.5 and had its epicenter in the Pacific Ocean, at a depth of 23.67 kilometers.
Hours later, the Guatemalan Seismological Service reported on three other seismic events recorded at different points off the country’s southern coast.
One of them occurred at 1:51 p.m. and had a magnitude of 4.0. Its epicenter was located 8 kilometers north-northwest of Puerto San José, Escuintla, with a depth of 106 kilometers.
At the same time, another earthquake of magnitude 4.3 was detected, whose epicenter was located 28 kilometers south-southwest of La Gomera, Escuintla. This movement occurred at a depth of 54 kilometers.
The fourth event was reported at 3:47 p.m. It reached a magnitude of 4.6 and was located 49 kilometers south of Champerico, Retalhuleu, with a depth of 30 kilometers.
The authorities have not reported any personal or material damage or damage to infrastructure related to these earthquakes.
Guatemala, a highly seismic country
Guatemala is located in one of the regions with the highest seismic activity in America due to its location on the interaction point of the Cocos, Caribbean and North American tectonic plates.
The convergence of these plates generates constant seismic movements, especially on the Pacific coast, where the Cocos plate is introduced beneath the Caribbean plate in a process known as subduction.
In addition to this tectonic dynamic, the national territory has several active geological fault systems, including the Motagua fault and the Chixoy-Polochic fault, capable of generating earthquakes of considerable magnitude.
Experts point out that seismic activity is part of the natural dynamics of the Guatemalan territory, which is why they recommend that the population stay informed through official sources and know the prevention and response measures in emergencies.
Recommendations in case of earthquake
The authorities recommend:
- Stay calm and avoid running or pushing other people.
- Previously identify evacuation routes and safe points.
- Stay away from windows, mirrors, shelves and objects that could fall.
- Protect the head and neck during movement.
- If you are in a building, stay in a safe place until the earthquake ends.
- Do not use elevators during or after the event.
- If you are driving a vehicle, stop in a safe place away from bridges, poles and power lines.
- Have an emergency backpack ready with water, non-perishable food, flashlight, radio, medications and important documents.
- Check for possible gas leaks or structural damage after movement.
- Only attend to the information disseminated by the competent authorities.
*Stay up to date with the Now newsletter. Key information at the moment it happens. Subscribe here.