Earthquake kills two in southern Mexico
6.5 magnitude quake damages buildings and triggers hundreds of aftershocks
A powerful 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast of Guerrero, southern Mexico, at a depth of 35 km, killing two people and causing widespread structural damage, authorities said. A 50-year-old woman in Guerrero died when her home collapsed, while a 67-year-old man in Mexico City suffered a fatal fall while evacuating his apartment building, local officials reported. Seismological services logged hundreds of aftershocks, with 420 recorded by midday and the largest measuring 4.7.
The tremor was felt across a broad region, prompting residents to flee buildings and triggering emergency protocols in multiple states. Civil protection teams deployed rapidly to search for victims, evaluate damaged structures and secure areas at risk from secondary hazards. Authorities reported landslides blocking highways, gas leaks, and damage to homes, public buildings and hospitals in Guerrero, while power outages and localized disruptions affected other areas.
Videos circulating on social media showed swaying high-rises, cracked facades and debris-strewn streets as sirens and evacuation alarms sounded in urban centers. Emergency responders treated several people for injuries ranging from cuts to fractures; officials warned that casualty figures could change as damage assessments and rescue operations continue.
Federal and state agencies coordinated relief efforts, with the president expressing condolences to the families of the victims and directing federal support to affected regions. Schools and public buildings were temporarily closed in some localities for structural inspections and safety checks. Utility crews worked to repair disrupted services while civil protection teams advised residents to follow safety guidance and remain prepared for additional aftershocks.
Mexico’s position along the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it prone to frequent seismic activity, and the moderate depth of this quake intensified surface shaking in several population centers. Authorities emphasized the importance of preparedness and rapid emergency response, noting that ongoing inspections will determine the extent of damage to critical infrastructure. As assessments proceeded, officials continued search-and-rescue efforts and urged the public to report hazards such as gas leaks and unstable buildings to emergency services.




