6.5 Earthquake Strikes Mexico, Kills 2 as Panic Grips Guerrero and Mexico City

A powerful 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico early Friday, killing at least two people, damaging infrastructure, and triggering widespread panic across multiple states, including Guerrero and Mexico City.

The quake occurred near Mexico’s Pacific coast, with its epicentre located in Guerrero at a depth of approximately 35 kilometres, according to seismic authorities. Strong tremors were felt hundreds of kilometres away, setting off earthquake alarms in major urban centres and prompting mass evacuations as residents rushed outdoors for safety.

Officials in Guerrero confirmed that a 50-year-old woman died after her home collapsed due to the tremors. In the capital, local authorities reported the death of a 67-year-old man who fell while evacuating a building during the emergency. These fatalities marked the most serious impact of the earthquake, though authorities warned that casualty figures could change as damage assessments continue.

In Mexico City, seismic warning systems activated moments before the shaking intensified, sending people pouring into the streets. Residential buildings swayed visibly, traffic signals were damaged, and cracks were reported inside homes and offices in several neighbourhoods. Iconic landmarks, including the Angel of Independence monument, were seen moving during the quake, highlighting the intensity of the tremors.

The earthquake briefly interrupted a live press conference by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum at the National Palace. As alarms sounded and the building shook, she and members of the media calmly evacuated the venue. The president later resumed the briefing, stating that emergency response mechanisms had been activated and that she was in constant contact with state authorities in the affected regions.

In Guerrero, officials reported landslides on major highways, gas leaks, and damage to residential buildings, hospitals, and public facilities. Emergency services were deployed across the state to clear debris, secure hazardous areas, and assist residents forced to evacuate their homes. By midday, seismologists recorded more than 400 aftershocks, with the strongest measuring 4.7 in magnitude, raising concerns about further structural damage.

Airports in Mexico City and Acapulco, a major tourist destination, reported only minor damage and continued operations without disruption. However, authorities urged caution as inspections of runways, terminals, and nearby infrastructure continued.

Guerrero remains particularly vulnerable, as the region is still recovering from a devastating Category 5 hurricane that struck in 2023, severely damaging homes, hotels, and transport networks. The latest earthquake has added pressure to already strained recovery efforts, intensifying fears among residents and local businesses.

Mexico sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the world’s most seismically active countries. Earthquakes of varying intensity are frequent, but powerful tremors like Friday’s serve as a reminder of the country’s ongoing exposure to natural disasters.

While a comprehensive assessment of damage is still underway, authorities have urged citizens to remain alert, follow official advisories, and prepare for possible aftershocks. Emergency shelters have been readied in affected areas as officials work to ensure public safety and restore normalcy.