Earthquakes in Guatemala: What Happened and What You Need to Know

On July 8, 2025, people in Guatemala were shocked and scared when a group of strong earthquakes hit the country. These earthquakes happened near the capital city, Guatemala City, and affected many nearby towns. Houses were damaged, roads were blocked, and sadly, lives were lost.

Let’s take a closer look at what happened, how people were affected, and what we can learn from it.

A Day of Shaking and Fear

In the afternoon, a powerful earthquake hit near the towns of Amatitlán and Alotenango. This was the strongest one, with a magnitude of 5.6. Before it, there was a smaller quake, and after it, more tremors followed. These are called foreshocks and aftershocks. The ground kept shaking for hours.

People ran out of their homes, schools, and offices. Many were crying or praying, not knowing if more shaking would come. In some places, buildings cracked or fell. Emergency alarms sounded across the city.

Death and Damage

The saddest news came from near Antigua Guatemala, where two people died. A landslide caused by the earthquake buried their car under dirt and rocks. Several homes were also damaged, especially old houses made with sun-dried bricks, which are not strong during earthquakes.

In some parts of the country, roads were blocked by landslides. This made it hard for rescue teams to reach people. The government closed schools and offices in the most affected areas, including Guatemala, Escuintla, and Sacatepéquez.

The Government’s Response

President Bernardo Arévalo spoke to the people soon after the earthquakes. He asked everyone to stay calm and follow instructions from emergency teams. The country’s disaster agency, CONRED, sent help quickly. They worked with local firefighters, police, and medical workers.

The president also reminded people to prepare their 72-hour emergency kits, called the "mochila de las 72 horas". These kits should include food, water, medicine, a flashlight, important documents, and extra clothes. Having a kit ready can save lives during disasters.

Why Does This Happen in Guatemala?

Guatemala is located on a dangerous line between two pieces of the Earth’s crust, called tectonic plates. One of them, the Cocos Plate, moves under the Caribbean Plate. This movement causes earthquakes and even volcanoes.

Guatemala has had many strong earthquakes in the past. In 1976, a terrible earthquake killed over 23,000 people. Many homes and buildings were not strong enough to handle the shaking. Since then, the country has tried to build better and prepare more. But earthquakes are still a big risk.

Staying Safe in Earthquake Country

If you live in Guatemala or a similar country, it is important to know how to stay safe. Here are some tips:

Before an earthquake:

Make an emergency plan with your family. Prepare your 72-hour kit. Know where the safest places are in your home—under a strong table or against a wall.

During an earthquake:

If you are inside, drop, cover, and hold on. Stay away from windows. If you are outside, move away from buildings and power lines.

After an earthquake:

Check for injuries and help others if you can. Listen to the radio or emergency apps for news. Be careful of aftershocks, which can still cause damage.

A Country That Stays Strong

Even though these earthquakes caused fear and sadness, they also showed the strength of the Guatemalan people. Neighbors helped each other. Rescue workers risked their lives to find those in danger. People shared food, water, and shelter with others.

In hard times, Guatemala always comes together. This spirit of solidarity helps the country heal and rebuild. The recent earthquakes remind us how important it is to stay prepared, stay calm, and help one another.

Final Thoughts

Earthquakes are scary, but with the right information and preparation, we can reduce the damage they cause. Guatemala is a beautiful and strong country, full of people who care for each other. Let’s learn from this event and keep working to make our homes and communities safer.

If you live in an area with earthquakes, now is a good time to check your home, talk with your family, and build your emergency kit. Stay safe—and stay strong.