A powerful 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico early Friday morning, killing two people, injuring several others, and causing structural damage across multiple regions, authorities confirmed.
The quake occurred with its epicenter near San Marcos in the coastal state of Guerrero, not far from the resort city of Acapulco. According to Mexico’s national seismological agency and data from the United States Geological Survey, the tremor originated at a depth of roughly 35 kilometers, making it widely felt across southern and central parts of the country, including the capital.
Seismic alarms echoed through Mexico City and coastal areas moments before the shaking began, prompting residents, workers, and tourists to evacuate buildings as a precaution. Videos shared on social media showed high-rise structures swaying in the capital and vehicles rocking along Acapulco streets.
Fatalities and Injuries
Officials in Guerrero confirmed that a 50-year-old woman died after her home collapsed in a rural community close to the epicenter. In Mexico City, authorities reported the death of a 60-year-old man who suffered a medical emergency and fell while attempting to evacuate during the quake. At least a dozen additional injuries were reported in the capital, most described as minor.
Emergency services responded quickly, deploying search-and-rescue teams and medical personnel to affected areas. In Chilpancingo, the capital of Guerrero state, a hospital sustained significant structural damage, leading to the evacuation of patients as a safety measure.
Infrastructure Damage and Response
Civil defense officials reported landslides on several highways near Acapulco and damage to homes and public buildings throughout Guerrero. In Mexico City, engineers began inspections of dozens of buildings, with a small number temporarily closed due to potential structural risks.
Power outages were reported shortly after the quake, though authorities said electricity had been restored to nearly all affected areas by Friday night. Transportation services experienced brief disruptions, but major routes reopened within hours.
Aftershocks and Public Disruption
The main tremor was followed by an intense series of aftershocks. By midday Friday, more than 400 had been recorded, with the total later exceeding 500, according to seismological officials. While most were minor, residents remained on edge throughout the day.
The earthquake also briefly interrupted President Claudia Sheinbaum’s first press conference of the year. As alarms sounded, she calmly instructed those present to evacuate before resuming the briefing once conditions stabilized.
A Seismically Active Nation
Mexico lies along the intersection of several tectonic plates, making earthquakes a recurring threat. The country has invested heavily in seismic monitoring and early warning systems following past disasters, including the catastrophic 1985 earthquake and a deadly 7.1-magnitude quake in 2017.
Friday’s event once again highlighted both the risks faced by the region and the importance of preparedness. Authorities urged residents to remain alert for additional aftershocks and to follow official guidance as assessments continue.
Emergency agencies said damage evaluations were ongoing, and more detailed reports were expected in the coming days.
For deeper context and verified updates on Colorado Officials Investigate Rare Fatal Wildlife Encounter on Remote Mountain Trail, readers are strongly encouraged to explore this detailed blog before drawing conclusions.
