A large storm nearly 2,000 miles away generated 15-foot high waves that battered the Central American coast. As many as 20 houses were reported destroyed in Nicaragua as a result of the waves although authorities have not reported any fatalities.
More than 200 people were asked to evacuate their homes in Nicaragua after reports of large waves in other neighboring countries were announced.
Scientists say the waves were not tsunamis which are triggered by massive underwater earthquakes. Instead, these waves were caused by a powerful storm located in the South Pacific which was affecting beaches from the Galapagos Islands to Acapulco.
Hugh Cobb, a meteorologist at the National Hurricane Center in Miami told the Associated Press that 'They [the waves] should start coming down over the next several days. We expect them to gradually subside over the next 24 to 48 hours.'
A small hotel in Guatemala was also damaged by the waves. The hotel, which is mostly frequented by surfers, is located in Sipacate, 60 miles southeast of Guatemala City.
'The sea took away eight rooms and part of the restaurant, which was made of wood,' said Brigido de Paz, the manager. 'The kitchen and the rooms that were made of concrete are flooded and damaged.'
Warnings are still in effect for the area as more potentially damaging waves may be on the way.
