An earthquake measuring 7.3 in magnitude struck the southern coast of Mexico early Friday morning. The tremor, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), was centered near the Chiapas state coastline. The quake occurred at a shallow depth of about 9 miles, intensifying the shaking and expanding its reach.
The main quake was part of a broader pattern of seismic activity in the area. It was followed by several weaker earthquakes including a magnitude 4.7 near Aquiles Serdán and magnitudes 5.1, 5.3, and 6.0 near Puerto Madero. Newsweek reached out to USGS for comments on the event.
Location and Magnitude
Preliminary USGS data placed the epicenter roughly 30 miles southwest of Aquiles Serdán, a coastal community in Chiapas, close to the port town of Puerto Madero near the Guatemala border. The earthquake struck at 8:48 a.m. local time. Earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.0 or above are classified as major, capable of causing severe to catastrophic damage, especially near the epicenter and in areas with vulnerable structures.
The USGS notes that such tremors can lead to structural damage, fatalities, landslides, liquefaction, and widespread infrastructure disruptions.
Immediate Impact
Initial reports indicated no immediate deaths or significant damage following the earthquake. Authorities were expected to assess infrastructure and monitor coastal areas for potential tsunami impacts. Social media videos captured strong shaking during the quake.
The NWS Tsunami Alerts stated that a tsunami was unlikely in the U.S., though the earthquake’s characteristics meant a tsunami could be possible within 200 miles of the epicenter. MyRadar Weather meteorologist Matthew Cappucci noted on social media that the thrust motion of the quake’s epicenter could cause a tsunami within that range.
Substantial liquefaction, where the shaking temporarily makes soils behave like a liquid, was also a possibility. This could cause some structures or objects to sink slightly. Significant aftershocks are expected to continue for several days.
Historical Context
Mexico has experienced devastating earthquakes in the past, notably the September 19, 1985 earthquake in Mexico City. This event was recorded at magnitude 8.0–8.1, causing extensive damage and fatalities, with death toll estimates ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 people.
What Residents Should Do Next
Officials advise residents in affected areas to follow local emergency directives and remain alert for aftershocks. Although aftershocks lessen in intensity over time, they can happen for weeks after the initial quake.
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