Strong Mexico Quake Triggers Tsunami Alerts Across Pacific Coast
MEXICO CITY — A powerful earthquake struck off the southern coast of Mexico on Friday, shaking buildings across Guatemala and El Salvador and prompting tsunami warnings for parts of the Pacific coastline, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and regional authorities.
The USGS measured the quake at magnitude 7.4, with its epicenter located near Puerto Madero in the Mexican state of Chiapas, close to the Guatemala border. The shallow depth of the quake intensified the shaking across southern Mexico and neighboring Central American countries.
Residents in Guatemala City, southern Mexico and parts of El Salvador reported strong, prolonged shaking that forced people to evacuate homes, offices and public buildings. Videos shared on social media showed frightened residents gathering in streets as buildings swayed during the quake.
Authorities in Guatemala activated emergency response protocols while officials in Mexico assessed potential damage along the Pacific coast. Initial reports indicated no confirmed fatalities, though inspections of roads, bridges and public infrastructure were continuing.
Following the earthquake, tsunami alerts were issued for coastal communities near the epicenter because hazardous waves were considered possible along portions of Mexico's Pacific coastline. Emergency management agencies urged residents in vulnerable coastal areas to follow official instructions until the threat could be evaluated.
Seismologists noted that southern Mexico lies along the boundary where the Cocos Plate is forced beneath the North American Plate, making the region one of the world's most seismically active. The same tectonic system has produced several devastating earthquakes in Mexico and Central America over the past decades.
Authorities warned that aftershocks are likely over the coming hours and advised residents to remain cautious, avoid damaged structures and monitor official emergency updates as assessments continue.