A 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of El Salvador on Thursday near the capital but authorities said there were no initial reports of casualties or damage. The quake was so strong it was likely felt throughout Central America, officials said. The quake struck in the Pacific Ocean around 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of San Salvador at a depth of 40 miles (65 km), according to the US Geological Survey. The Salvadoran environment ministry said the quake was even stronger, with a magnitude of 6.8.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center did not issue an alert for the quake. But the Environment Ministry issued one of its own, predicting sea level variations of up to 12 inches (30 centimeters). However, Environment Minister Lina Pohl said the alert was sent "as a protocol." Coastal residents should avoid entering the water for four hours after the quake, the ministry said on Twitter.
President-elect Nayib Bukele, who takes office on Saturday, said on Twitter that the earthquake was felt "throughout 100 percent of the country." Police and firemen fanned out across the country to evaluate the situation and reported "no serious or generalized damage," the Civil Protection department said on Twitter.
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