A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.5 struck southern and central Mexico on Friday, January 2, 2026, sending tremors through the region and briefly interrupting President Claudia Sheinbaum's first press conference of the new year.
Seismic Event Details and Epicentre
The quake's epicentre was located near the town of San Marcos in the southern state of Guerrero, close to the popular Pacific coast resort city of Acapulco, as confirmed by Mexico's national seismological agency. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) provided further specifics, noting the tremor occurred at a depth of 21.7 miles (35 kilometres). The precise location was approximately 2.5 miles north-northwest of Rancho Viejo, Guerrero, a mountainous area about 57 miles northeast of Acapulco.
Immediate Response and Public Reaction
The shaking was strong enough to trigger seismic alarms, leading residents and tourists in major centres like Mexico City and Acapulco to rush out of buildings and into the streets as a safety precaution. The event caused a direct disruption to official proceedings, occurring during President Claudia Sheinbaum's press briefing.
President Sheinbaum resumed her address shortly after the tremors subsided. She informed the media that she had already been in contact with Guerrero's Governor, Evelyn Salgado, for an initial assessment. The early report from the governor was reassuring, indicating no serious damage had been reported in the immediate aftermath of the seismic event.
Context and Safety in a Seismic Zone
Mexico is located in a highly active seismic zone, and its capital, Mexico City, is particularly vulnerable due to its location on an ancient lakebed. The country has invested significantly in an early warning alarm system and strict building codes, which are credited with saving lives during frequent tremors. Friday's 6.5 magnitude quake serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present geological forces in the region.
While this event did not result in major destruction, it underscores the importance of constant preparedness. Authorities and citizens alike remain vigilant, with protocols for evacuation and response well-practiced. The swift communication between federal and state leadership, as seen between President Sheinbaum and Governor Salgado, highlights the coordinated approach to disaster management in Mexico.
