In brief
In the wake of a 5.7-magnitude earthquake on Tuesday afternoon, Guatemala suspended classes in its capital and mandated business closures after landslides claimed at least two lives and inflicted significant damage on infrastructure.
On Tuesday, an initial quake struck approximately 10 miles southwest of Guatemala City, which is home to nearly three million residents, as reported by the United States Geological Survey. The earthquake and aftershocks generated landslides, resulting in the collapse of various structures, according to updates from the national disaster agency shared on social media. Local media stated that two individuals were killed when a falling boulder struck their vehicle during the event, although officials in the region have yet to comment directly.In response to the disaster, the Guatemalan government suspended all classes at schools and halted non-essential services in the impacted areas. The Finance Ministry of Guatemala will also remain closed until at least Wednesday to facilitate assessments of any structural damage.President Bernardo Arévalo addressed reporters, confirming that numerous homes, infrastructure, and highways sustained damages. He assured the public that the earthquake's occurrence, in a nation accustomed to volcanic activity, was not associated with any volcanic eruptions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as recovery efforts begin in the affected areas. Mike Ives is a reporter for The Times based in Seoul and specializes in global breaking news coverage.
