Deadly Earthquake Aftershocks in Guatemala Reveal Critical Gaps in Disaster Preparedness

Guatemala was rocked by over three dozen earthquakes and aftershocks Tuesday, culminating in the tragic deaths of two men crushed by falling rocks while traveling on a local road. This deadly event underscores serious concerns about disaster preparedness in the region—concerns that directly affect U.S. interests in Central America.The National Institute for Seismology reported 37 tremors ranging from magnitudes of 3.0 to 5.7 centered primarily in Escuintla, Sacatepéquez, and surrounding departments. The strongest shocks were felt well beyond Guatemalan borders, including El Salvador, leading to widespread evacuations and property damage.Most alarming is the reactive rather than proactive posture taken by...