A strong 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico early Friday, sending tremors across central regions of the country, triggering seismic alarms in major cities, and prompting evacuations as authorities assess damage and casualties.
According to preliminary data from seismic monitoring agencies, the earthquake was centered near San Marcos in Guerrero, a coastal region southwest of Mexico City. The shaking was widely felt across Guerrero and surrounding states, including in the capital, where residents reported buildings swaying and alarms sounding shortly after the quake struck.
Mexican authorities have confirmed at least two fatalities linked to the earthquake. One death was reported near the epicenter after a residential structure collapsed, while another occurred in Mexico City during evacuation efforts, according to local officials. Emergency responders continue to evaluate additional reports as damage assessments expand.
In Guerrero, officials say multiple homes and buildings sustained structural damage, particularly in and around San Marcos. Landslides were reported in mountainous areas of the state, and inspections are underway along roads and key infrastructure corridors, including routes near Acapulco, where the quake was also strongly felt.
The earthquake struck as President Claudia Sheinbaum was holding a New Year press briefing in Mexico City. Seismic alerts forced a temporary evacuation of the venue, footage of which quickly circulated on social media. The president later resumed the briefing and said federal authorities were in direct contact with Guerrero state officials to coordinate emergency response and damage assessments.
Seismologists report dozens of aftershocks following the initial quake, including at least one measuring approximately magnitude 4.5. Authorities warned residents to remain alert, noting that aftershocks could continue for hours or days and may pose additional risks to weakened structures.
Residents across affected regions described scenes of confusion as people moved into streets and open areas during the shaking. In Mexico City, emergency services began building inspections shortly after the quake to check for structural damage to offices, apartment buildings, hospitals, and public facilities.
Mexico lies along one of the world’s most seismically active zones, where tectonic plates frequently generate earthquakes along the Pacific coast. Guerrero is among the states most vulnerable to seismic activity due to its location along the subduction zone.
Emergency officials urged the public to follow local guidance, avoid damaged structures, and prepare for potential aftershocks as assessments continue. Authorities said official casualty figures and damage estimates may change as more information becomes available.
This is a developing story. Further updates are expected as emergency crews complete inspections and government agencies release additional details.
