Powerful 6.5 Earthquake Strikes Southern Mexico, Shaking Buildings in Mexico City

A powerful 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico on Friday, causing significant shaking in Mexico City and triggering seismic alarms during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s first press briefing of the year. The quake’s epicentre was near San Marcos in Guerrero, close to the Pacific coast resort city of Acapulco. The tremors were felt across the region, causing structural damage in parts of the capital.

The earthquake, which occurred at approximately 10:00 AM local time, was reported to have caused buildings to sway and led to the activation of seismic alarms. President Sheinbaum, who was addressing the media at the time, paused her briefing to ensure the safety of her team and the journalists present. She later resumed the briefing, stating that preliminary reports indicated no major casualties but that the full extent of the damage was still being assessed.

Emergency services were quickly deployed to the affected areas to assess the damage and provide assistance to those in need. Authorities in Mexico City and surrounding regions have been on high alert, monitoring the situation and providing updates to the public. The National Seismological Service (SSN) has reported aftershocks following the main quake, and residents have been advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols.

The region of Guerrero, where the epicentre was located, is no stranger to seismic activity. In recent years, several significant earthquakes have struck the area, causing varying degrees of damage and disruption. The government has been working to improve infrastructure and emergency response systems to better handle such events. This latest quake serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for preparedness and resilience in earthquake-prone areas.

In Mexico City, residents and officials are working together to ensure that buildings and critical infrastructure are inspected and, if necessary, reinforced. The city has a well-established emergency response plan, which was put into action immediately following the earthquake. Citizens have been advised to stay calm, avoid panic, and follow the guidance of local authorities.

As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on assessing the damage, providing aid to those affected, and ensuring the safety and well-being of the population. The international community has also expressed its support and readiness to assist if needed. The resilience and preparedness of the Mexican people will be crucial in the coming days and weeks as they work to recover from this significant seismic event.