A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 struck the Pacific coast of Mexico on Friday, causing fatalities and sending tremors felt hundreds of kilometers away in the capital. The seismic event rattled the popular tourist destination of Acapulco and disrupted a holiday weekend in Mexico City.
Quake Strikes Near Acapulco, Felt in Distant Capital
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake occurred shortly before 8:00 AM local time. Its epicenter was located near the major port and beach resort city of Acapulco in Guerrero state. The tremors were felt intensely around 400 kilometers (250 miles) to the north in Mexico City.
In the capital, the city's sophisticated earthquake early warning alarms were activated, prompting residents and visitors to rush into the streets as a safety precaution. This caused significant disruption during a holiday weekend, with many people beginning their day in a state of alarm.
Casualties and Damage Reported
The quake resulted in at least two fatalities, according to reports from Reuters. The most significant impact was felt in a small town near the epicenter, where moderate damage was reported. A photo from the community of San Marcos in Guerrero state showed a house with visible structural damage following the tremors.
While the shaking was strong and widespread, initial assessments suggested that no catastrophic, widespread structural damage occurred in the major urban centers. The focus of the emergency response was on the areas closest to the quake's origin.
Mexico's Seismic Reality and Response
Mexico is located in one of the world's most seismically active regions, sitting atop several major tectonic plates. The country has developed a robust earthquake early warning system following devastating quakes in the past, including a major event in 1985 and another in 2017. Friday's event tested this system once again.
The successful activation of alarms in Mexico City, despite the considerable distance from the epicenter, highlights the country's preparedness. However, the loss of life in Guerrero state is a sobering reminder of the direct danger posed by such natural events to communities near the source.
Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage, and residents are advised to check for updates from official sources. The event underscores the ever-present seismic risk in the region and the importance of constant vigilance and preparedness.
