An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 struck near San Marcos, close to the coastal city of Acapulco in Mexico, causing significant tremors felt in Mexico City. The seismic event was followed by over 150 aftershocks. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s press briefing was briefly interrupted by the seismic alarms.
Residents, including José Raymundo Díaz Taboada, a local doctor, reported hearing a loud rumbling noise and feeling strong shaking, although lighter compared to previous earthquakes. Communication disruptions were experienced, hindering contact with friends living in affected areas.
The Mexican Seismic Alert System provided a 68-second warning in Mexico City, but Acapulco, closer to the epicenter and experiencing more damage, only had a 9-second warning. A landslide was reported in the El Derrumbe area on the Acapulco-Zihuatanejo highway, prompting officials to caution travelers in the region.
Aftershocks continued to be felt in Acapulco, with officials urging vigilance. Governor Evelyn Salgado of Guerrero reassured that no significant damage had been reported in Michoacán, while the states of Veracruz, Jalisco, and Tabasco also experienced tremors.
Reports of power outages and minor damages emerged, with the National Electricity Commission assessing potential electrical infrastructure impacts. Social media posts depicted shaking buildings and falling debris, exemplifying the quake’s intensity.
President Sheinbaum resumed her briefing after the interruption, confirming communication with Governor Salgado. The earthquake, originating 2.5 miles north-northwest of Rancho Viejo in Guerrero, caused brief panic among residents and tourists, prompting street evacuations in Mexico City and Acapulco.
The US Geological Survey detailed the quake’s depth and epicenter location, emphasizing the event’s proximity to Acapulco. As further information unfolds, the aftermath of the earthquake continues to be assessed.