Guatemala Closes Schools in Capital After Earthquakes
Published July 2025
Location Guatemala City
Guatemala shuts down schools in its capital after a series of earthquakes in July 2025. Learn about the government response damage assessment and public safety measures.
In the wake of a “series of earthquakes that rattled Guatemala City the Guatemalan government has announced the immediate closure of all schools in the capital region. The decision was made as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students teachers and staff amid ongoing seismic activity and the risk of aftershocks.
Series of Earthquakes Rock the Capital
Over the past 24 hours multiple earthquakes struck various regions of Guatemala with the strongest tremor measuring a magnitude of 5.8. The epicenter was located near the southwestern part of the country but the tremors were strongly felt in Guatemala City causing widespread alarm among residents.
According to the National Institute for Seismology Volcanology Meteorology and Hydrology INSIVUMEH at least four moderate quakes and several smaller aftershocks occurred creating fear and uncertainty. While no fatalities have been reported so far authorities are monitoring the situation closely due to the possibility of further seismic events.
Government Takes Swift Action
In response to the “earthquakes President Bernardo Arevalo’s administration swiftly enacted emergency protocols. The Ministry of Education issued a directive to temporarily close all public and private schools in Guatemala City and surrounding areas until further notice. The closure is intended to allow for structural inspections of educational facilities and prevent potential injuries.
We are prioritizing the safety of our students and educational personnel said Education Minister Claudia Ruiz. Until we can ensure that all school buildings are structurally sound classes will remain suspended.
Additionally emergency response teams have been deployed to assess the extent of damage to infrastructure including roads bridges hospitals and public buildings.
Public Reactions and Safety Measures
The sudden closure of schools has led to mixed reactions among parents. While many support the government’s cautionary approach others have expressed concern about the disruption to their childrens education.
Civil protection agencies have issued “guidelines urging citizens to stay away from damaged buildings avoid using elevators and prepare emergency kits. Authorities have also activated shelters for families in vulnerable housing conditions.
Meanwhile utility companies are checking gas lines and electrical grids to prevent hazards such as fires or outages which can often occur after significant seismic activity.
Limited Damage but Ongoing Risk
Preliminary “assessments indicate limited structural damage across Guatemala City including cracks in older buildings and some government offices. However experts warn that aftershocks remain a significant risk in the coming days.
INSIVUMEH officials noted that while the recent quakes were not catastrophic Guatemala’s location along major tectonic fault lines makes it highly susceptible to future seismic events. Preparedness and public awareness remain critical.
Schools to Remain Closed Until Further Evaluation
The Ministry of Education has confirmed that the closure of schools will be in place for at least 72 hours with updates to be provided as inspections continue. Virtual learning options are being considered for regions where access to digital tools is feasible.
In rural areas less affected by the earthquakes local school boards will make reopening decisions based on assessments conducted by municipal officials.
Conclusion
Guatemala’s “proactive decision to close schools in the capital reflects the government’s commitment to public safety amid unpredictable natural events. As earthquake monitoring continues and damage assessments are carried out the focus remains on preventing injuries and safeguarding infrastructure. Authorities urge all citizens to stay informed through official channels and cooperate with emergency instructions during this period of uncertainty.