A powerful 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck central and southern Mexico early Friday morning, killing at least two people and injuring more than a dozen, according to authorities. Since the main shock, the National Seismological Service has recorded over 850 aftershocks, keeping emergency services on high alert.
The earthquake occurred at 7:58 a.m. local time, with its epicenter near San Marcos in the state of Guerrero, at a shallow depth of just 5 kilometers, significantly amplifying its impact across the region.
The National Civil Protection Coordination reported that the strongest shaking was felt in Guerrero and Mexico City, while the tremor was also felt across several other states, including Morelos, Jalisco, Oaxaca, Tabasco, and Colima.
In San Marcos, Guerrero, Governor Evelyn Salgado confirmed the death of a woman in her 50s after her home collapsed. Family members said she was in her kitchen when the structure gave way.
In Mexico City, authorities reported the death of a 60-year-old man in the Benito Juárez municipality. The victim reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest and sustained fatal injuries after falling while attempting to evacuate his second-floor apartment during the quake.
Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada said emergency crews are inspecting 34 buildings and five homes for structural damage. Although the city’s seismic alert system operated with 98% effectiveness, broadcasting warnings through loudspeakers and mobile devices, the quake caused widespread panic, disrupted traffic, and briefly interrupted President Claudia Sheinbaum’s regular press briefing.
The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) confirmed that power outages affecting several neighborhoods were quickly addressed and that electricity has since been fully restored.
Authorities continue to urge residents to avoid entering buildings with visible damage, as structural assessments remain ongoing and the risk of further aftershocks persists.
