A 7.3 magnitude earthquake was felt by millions of people from Mexico City to El Salvador Friday.
Significant damage is likely and some fatalities are possible, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, which reported at least 10 aftershocks between magnitude 4.9 and 6.0.
Little to no landsliding is expected, but liquefaction is estimated to be severe. USGS reported that mud wall and adobe block buildings are particularly vulnerable to the quake.
USGS estimates that six million people experienced moderate to strong shaking during the quake, with strong aftershocks following.
A tsunami threat was issued by the U.S. Tsunami Warning System for affected coastal areas. The threat has now passed, according to official reports, but sea level fluctuations may continue and residents are warned to remain observant and exercise caution near the sea.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said preliminary reports showed no damage, according to AP. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates economic losses to be less than 1% of Mexico’s GDP.
Friday’s earthquake occurred in an area with a “well-documented history of moderate to large earthquakes,” according to USGS, and is the 51st quake with magnitude 7 or higher to occur in Central America since 1950.