Death toll rises to two from 6.5-magnitude quake in Mexico
Mexico City, Jan 3
Two people died and 12 others were injured after a 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico, local authorities said.
A 50-year-old woman was killed after her home collapsed in the state of Guerrero on Friday, the epicenter of the earthquake, said Evelyn Salgado, the state's governor.
In addition, a man in his 60s died after stumbling and losing consciousness in Benito Juarez municipality, Mexico City, during an evacuation prompted by the earthquake, Xinhua news agency reported quoting an official statement from the municipality.
Clara Brugada, head of government of Mexico City, said on X that after activating the earthquake response protocol, the latest report indicated 12 people injured, as well as 18 complaints due to a lack of electrical supply in various neighborhoods.
She added that two structures were being evaluated for risk of collapse, and 34 buildings and five homes were being inspected as a preventive measure.
President Claudia Sheinbaum was forced to evacuate the presidential palace during her regular morning press conference.
Mexico's National Seismological Service said the quake occurred at 7:58 a.m. local time (1358 GMT), with the epicenter located about 4 km southwest of San Marcos in the southern state of Guerrero, at a depth of approximately 5 km.
In Mexico City, loudspeakers on the streets broadcast a seismic alert several seconds before the tremors were felt.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Only two fatalities from a 6.5 magnitude quake is actually a testament to their preparedness. In India, we need to learn from such systems, especially for our cities in seismic zones. The alert seconds before can save so many lives. Good reporting.
The man who died during evacuation is heartbreaking. Sometimes the panic causes more harm. Hope the injured recover soon. Mexico seems to have a robust protocol with inspections happening quickly. Stay strong, Mexico.
While the response seems coordinated, the article mentions 18 complaints about power supply. In such crises, reliable infrastructure is crucial. I hope the authorities are addressing this alongside the structural inspections. A respectful critique – preparedness must include utilities.
Epicenter at just 5 km depth – that's very shallow and makes the shaking intense. It's fortunate the death toll isn't higher. The world should share technology for early warning systems. Jai Hind, but also solidarity with Mexico.
Even the President had to evacuate! Shows no one is safe when nature strikes. Thoughts with the people of Guerrero and Mexico City. The detailed reporting on the response is good to see – transparency is key in disasters.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.