A powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck off the coast of Chiapas, Mexico, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning for parts of the region.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred on Friday afternoon local time. Officials warned that hazardous tsunami waves could affect coastal areas within approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) of the earthquake’s epicenter.
The U.S. Tsunami Warning System said tsunami waves ranging from 0.3 to 1 meter (1 to 3 feet) above normal tide levels are possible along the coasts of Mexico and Guatemala. Smaller waves may also reach the coastlines of Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, and Peru.
Authorities in neighboring Guatemala reported landslides caused by the earthquake, but President Bernardo Arévalo said there were no immediate reports of fatalities. He added that officials are closely monitoring the situation and urged residents to remain alert and follow guidance issued by emergency authorities.
Officials have also begun precautionary evacuations in vulnerable coastal areas as emergency teams assess the impact of the earthquake and prepare for any possible tsunami-related hazards.
The tremor was felt across several countries in Central America, including El Salvador, where some buildings in the capital, San Salvador, were evacuated as a precaution. Emergency authorities across the region remain on high alert as they continue to monitor for aftershocks and any further developments.
