6.8 magnitude earthquake shakes El Salvador

A 6.8 magnitude tremor struck El Salvador on Tuesday afternoon. According to the authorities of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) of that country, the epicenter occurred off the coast of Usulután, in eastern El Salvador.

The quake did not leave fatalities. However, there was damage to hospital infrastructure and some homes in the eastern zone. Also, damage to electrical power wiring and minor landslides.

After the earthquake, MARN reported at least eight aftershocks. The strongest so far was 5.4 degrees.

“The damage presented has been minimal. (…) Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported so far. However, the population is urged to remain alert, remain calm and follow the recommendations that we issue through our sources officials,” said Luis Alonso Amaya, director of the National Civil Protection System, at a press conference.

The Salvadoran authorities ruled out the threat of a tsunami after the earthquake

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