Honduras earthquake

7.1 earthquake hits Honduras

Article published on the 2009-05-28 Latest update 2009-05-28 10:07 TU

A map of Honduras
(Picture: Wikipedia)

An earthquake hit the northern coast of Honduras on Thursday. It measured 7.1 on the Richter scale according to the US Geological Survey. The Pacific Tsunami Center has issued an alert for three countries in the region.

The epicentre of the quake is estimated to be 130 kilometres north of La Ceiba and it struck around 08:30 GMT on Thursday morning.

According to the Pacific Tsunami Center, Honduras, Belize and Guatemala are at risk of a local tsunami. Their analysis predicts that coasts within 100 kilometres of the epicentre could be affected. Although it did say that there is no historical evidence for widespread damage during such incidents.

Areas outside 100 kilometres could experience some sea level changes and unusual currents of water.

Incidents between 7.0 and 7.9 on the Richter scale are usually described as a “major earthquake - can cause serious damage over larger areas,” according to the Nevada Seismological Laboratory.

Initial reports suggest that there were no casualties.