El Salvador: 95 Evacuated as Tropical Storm Cristina Hits Coast

At least 95 people have been evacuated from El Salvador's coastal areas after Tropical Storm Cristina made landfall early Wednesday. The storm brought intense rainfall to the central and western regions, with forecasts indicating the heavy rains could persist through Thursday.

The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources reported Cristina was located offshore, moving slowly west with sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour. Coastal businesses and restaurants in popular tourist spots like La Libertad have closed. Authorities are monitoring high surf and potential damage to infrastructure, though no casualties have been reported thus far.

Civil Protection Director Luis Anaya stated that 95 individuals, including 39 adults and 56 minors, were moved to shelters. The Ministry of Environment warned that rainfall could intensify, potentially causing landslides and river overflows across the country. As a preventative measure, a nationwide orange alert was issued, and educational institutions suspended classes. The suspension is expected to continue until Thursday, depending on weather conditions.