Post by : Meena Ariff

A powerful 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico, sending shockwaves through the capital and coastal regions, killing at least two people and causing significant damage near the epicenter.

Seismic authorities reported that the quake occurred shortly before 8:00 am local time, with its epicenter located about 14 kilometers southwest of San Marcos, a town in Guerrero state. The tremor was strong enough to be felt nearly 400 kilometers away in Mexico City, where emergency alarms sounded, prompting thousands of residents to rush outdoors during the holiday weekend.

In the capital, a 60-year-old man lost his life after falling while evacuating his second-floor apartment. City officials confirmed that at least 12 others were injured, though no major structural damage was reported across the metropolitan area.

President Claudia Sheinbaum was in the middle of her routine morning press briefing when alarms sounded, prompting an immediate evacuation of the presidential palace as a precautionary measure.

The worst damage was reported in San Marcos, where dozens of homes were either destroyed or severely cracked. Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado confirmed that a woman in her fifties died when her house collapsed during the quake. Local officials estimated that around 50 houses were badly damaged, with nearly every structure in the town showing visible cracks.

Residents described scenes of fear and destruction, pointing to collapsed walls and deep fractures running through their homes. Many spent hours outside, afraid of aftershocks.

In Acapulco, a popular tourist destination, sirens blared across the city as visitors and locals fled hotels and buildings in panic. Some tourists were seen running into the streets with little time to gather belongings.

Mexico sits on the intersection of five tectonic plates, making earthquakes a frequent threat. Experts note that tremors originating off the Pacific coast, particularly near Guerrero, are often felt strongly in Mexico City due to its soft, lakebed soil, which amplifies seismic waves.

Over the years, the country has invested heavily in early warning systems, including mobile alerts and public loudspeakers, which once again proved critical in helping residents evacuate quickly and avoid further casualties.

Authorities continue to assess damage and monitor aftershocks as affected communities begin recovery efforts.

#Global News