At least two fatalities reported as infrastructure, homes, and roads are damaged in and around Guatemala City after tremors.
Guatemala Shuts Down Schools Following Devastating Earthquakes
Guatemala Shuts Down Schools Following Devastating Earthquakes
Nation's Education System Disrupted as 5.7-Magnitude Quake Claims Lives and Causes Landslides
Guatemala suspended classes at schools on Wednesday in the capital and nearby areas in response to a significant earthquake that triggered deadly landslides, resulting in multiple casualties. The earthquake, registered at a magnitude of 5.7, struck approximately 10 miles southwest of Guatemala City on Tuesday afternoon, as reported by the United States Geological Survey.
This natural disaster, affecting a city populated by about three million residents, prompted immediate action from government officials, including the closure of non-essential services. Tragically, reports indicate that at least two individuals lost their lives when a boulder fell onto their vehicle during the incident, with firefighters confirming the deaths to local media outlets.
According to the national disaster agency, the earthquake and its subsequent aftershocks caused landslides that led to the collapse of several buildings. President Bernardo Arévalo described damage to infrastructure, homes, and crucial highways while clarifying that the earthquake was not linked to volcanic activities, despite the region's history of eruptions.
Further assessments are ongoing, and the government has ensured inspections of various facilities, including the Finance Ministry, which has also been closed temporarily until a thorough evaluation can be conducted to determine structural safety.
This natural disaster, affecting a city populated by about three million residents, prompted immediate action from government officials, including the closure of non-essential services. Tragically, reports indicate that at least two individuals lost their lives when a boulder fell onto their vehicle during the incident, with firefighters confirming the deaths to local media outlets.
According to the national disaster agency, the earthquake and its subsequent aftershocks caused landslides that led to the collapse of several buildings. President Bernardo Arévalo described damage to infrastructure, homes, and crucial highways while clarifying that the earthquake was not linked to volcanic activities, despite the region's history of eruptions.
Further assessments are ongoing, and the government has ensured inspections of various facilities, including the Finance Ministry, which has also been closed temporarily until a thorough evaluation can be conducted to determine structural safety.
