SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador — At least 15 people have died in El Salvador during the first four days of the Easter holiday period, most of them in traffic accidents, according to official reports released Wednesday.
The General Directorate of Civil Protection said 14 of the fatalities were caused by road accidents, while one person drowned.
Authorities also reported that one individual remains missing after attempting to cross the Lempa River in the department of Cabañas.
Deputy Civil Protection Director Fermín Pérez confirmed that 237 traffic accidents were recorded during the first four days of the holiday, resulting in 160 injuries and 25 arrests for dangerous driving.
He noted that distracted driving remains the primary cause of these accidents, followed by failure to maintain a safe distance, ignoring traffic signs, and alcohol consumption.
Between Tuesday and Wednesday alone, 49 traffic accidents were reported, leading to three deaths and 28 injuries. Three people were arrested for driving under the influence during that same period.
SEE ALSO: Traffic Accidents in El Salvador
In aquatic incidents, authorities said 58 people were rescued, including 36 from deep-water situations.
Pérez added that lifeguards are stationed at more than 170 monitoring points across 31 beaches, seven recreational parks, and two lakes nationwide.
Historically, traffic accidents have been a major concern during Holy Week in El Salvador, with increased travel leading to a spike in collisions, injuries, and fatalities on highways and rural roads.
Drownings are another recurring danger during Holy Week, as thousands flock to beaches and rivers. Limited lifeguard coverage, alcohol consumption, and risky behavior often contribute to tragic incidents in the water.
The country also saw a surge in fire emergencies. Fire Department Deputy Director Erick Vásquez reported 174 fires since the start of Holy Week, a 65.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
These include 79 brush fires, 14 forest fires, 14 structural fires, five landfill emergencies, and five vehicle fires.
Authorities continue to monitor safety across the country as the holiday period progresses, urging drivers and vacationers to follow preventive measures.
