A powerful earthquake struck southern and central Mexico on Friday, disrupting President Claudia Sheinbaum’s inaugural press briefing of the year and prompting immediate alert responses. With a preliminary magnitude of 6.5, the quake’s epicenter was located near San Marcos in Guerrero, not far from the popular resort city of Acapulco.
This seismic event is particularly significant as it highlights the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters and raises concerns about infrastructure preparedness in a country that has experienced severe earthquakes in the past.
Key Developments
- The earthquake registered a preliminary magnitude of 6.5, with its epicenter near San Marcos in Guerrero.
- Seismic alarms interrupted President Sheinbaum’s press briefing, indicating the urgency of the situation.
- Authorities reported various landslides in Acapulco and across nearby highways.
- Residents in both Mexico City and Acapulco evacuated buildings as the ground shook.
- Governor Evelyn Salgado reported no serious damage in Guerrero following communication with Sheinbaum.
- Some residents reported disruption in communications, hampering contact with friends and family in affected areas.
Full Report
Details of the Earthquake
The U.S. Geological Survey indicated that the earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 21.7 miles (35 kilometers), positioned about 2.5 miles north-northwest of Rancho Viejo in Guerrero. This location is situated in the mountainous regions roughly 57 miles northeast of Acapulco.
Immediate Reactions
President Claudia Sheinbaum quickly resumed her press briefing after the tremors, confirming that she had spoken with Guerrero’s Governor Evelyn Salgado. Salgado assured her that there were no significant reports of damage in the area. Local resident José Raymundo Díaz Taboada described the quake’s sound as a ‘strong rumble,’ noting that his cell phone’s seismic alert activated just before he felt the intense shaking. He mentioned that the tremors were less severe compared to previous experiences.
Response Measures
In the face of ongoing aftershocks, Díaz Taboada shared that he had prepared a backpack with essential items, reflecting a proactive approach to potential evacuation. However, he faced challenges reaching friends along the Costa Chica, as the quake disrupted communication lines.
Context & Previous Events
This earthquake occurs within a region that has experienced significant seismic activity historically, raising ongoing concerns about disaster preparedness and response mechanisms. In previous instances, earthquakes in Mexico have led to substantial damage and loss of life, underscoring the need for comprehensive safety measures.
