14 Jun 2017 | 09:56 PM UTC
Guatemala: Moderate damage following June 14 earthquake /update 1
6.9-magnitude offshore earthquake strikes near Tajumulco (southwest) early on June 14; no tsunami threat, moderate damage reported
Event
An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 on the Richter scale struck off the southwestern coast of Guatemala at around 01:30 (local time) on Wednesday, June 14. The epicenter was located approximately 8 km (5 mi) southwest of Tajumulco (San Marcos department), near the border with Mexico. Shaking was felt as far away as the capital Guatemala City. No tsunami alert was issued.
Early reports indicate that the earthquake caused some moderate damage to buildings and triggered landslides that have blocked a number of highways. One person suffered injuries in the southern town of San Sebastian Retalhuelu when an old church collapsed. Power outages have also been reported across various departments.
Context
Guatemala is located in a seismically active zone and earthquakes are relatively common.
Advice
Individuals in the area are advised to be prepared for transportation disruptions, adhere to any advice issued by the local authorities, and be prepared for aftershocks.
