Mexico 7.4-magnitude earthquake: Here’s where it struck

Mexico 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake: Here’s Where It Struck

Mexico 7 4 magnitude earthquake – A significant seismic event with a magnitude ranging from 7.3 to 7.4 occurred near the Pacific coastline of southern Mexico on Friday. The tremors spread across regions in Mexico and Central America, prompting authorities to issue tsunami alerts for coastal areas in proximity to the epicenter.

Location and Depth

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake originated off the coast of Chiapas, near the towns of Puerto Madero and Aquiles Serdan, at a depth of approximately 10 to 18 kilometers. Shallow quakes, like this one, typically cause more intense ground shaking close to the epicenter compared to deeper events.

Areas Affected

The most pronounced effects were felt in southern Mexico, particularly in Chiapas. Residents in Puerto Madero, near the epicenter, and Tapachula experienced severe shaking, leading to evacuations. Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the state capital, saw people flee buildings as panic spread. In Suchiate, officials began monitoring the coast for potential tsunami waves.

Oaxaca City reported moderate intensity tremors. Governor Salomón Jara stated that no serious damage was immediately observed. Meanwhile, in Mexico City, structures swayed, but the city’s earthquake alert system remained inactive as the initial seismic energy did not surpass warning thresholds.

President Claudia Sheinbaum noted that no damage had been reported in Chiapas or neighboring Tabasco. The tremor was also widely felt in Guatemala, with buildings in Guatemala City trembling for several seconds. Emergency protocols were activated, resulting in evacuations from homes and offices. El Salvador experienced the quake as well, though no casualties or significant damage were initially reported.

Tsunami Warning Issued, Downgraded

“Tsunami waves of up to one meter above normal tide levels were possible along parts of the Mexican and Guatemalan coasts within 300 kilometers of the epicenter,” said the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

However, Guatemala’s seismology institute later reduced the tsunami threat, indicating conditions were stable and under control, as per CNN.

Early Indications and Casualties

As of Friday, no deaths had been confirmed, and no major structural damage was reported. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum mentioned that authorities had not received updates on damage in Chiapas or Tabasco. Emergency teams are still assessing the affected zones, with aftershocks posing a continued risk.