A powerful earthquake struck southern and central Mexico early Friday, sending shockwaves through major cities and forcing thousands of residents into the streets in fear. The quake, measured at a preliminary magnitude of 6.5, was strong enough to be felt far beyond its epicenter, including in Mexico City, more than 300 kilometers away .
The epicenter was located near San Marcos in Guerrero state, a region along Mexico’s Pacific coast that is no stranger to seismic activity. The tremor occurred during the morning hours, catching many people off guard as buildings swayed and emergency alarms echoed through urban areas .
In a dramatic moment broadcast live on television, the earthquake interrupted a press conference by President Claudia Sheinbaum, as the country’s seismic alert system was activated. Officials and journalists were seen pausing as the warning sirens sounded, highlighting how suddenly the quake struck .
Residents across Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Mexico City reported strong shaking that lasted several seconds. Office workers and families quickly evacuated buildings, gathering in open spaces as a precaution. Social media was flooded with videos showing swinging lights, shaking furniture, and people rushing outdoors in panic.
Despite the intensity of the quake, no major casualties or large-scale damage have been reported so far, according to early assessments from emergency authorities. Government agencies immediately began inspections of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public buildings, to ensure there were no hidden structural risks .
Mexico sits along one of the world’s most active seismic zones, where tectonic plates constantly shift beneath the Earth’s surface. While earthquakes of this magnitude can be frightening, experts note that preparedness, strict building codes, and early warning systems have helped reduce loss of life in recent years.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain alert for possible aftershocks and to follow official guidance. Emergency services remain on standby as evaluations continue across affected regions.
As Mexico begins the new year, the earthquake serves as a reminder of the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters—and the importance of readiness, calm, and community resilience in moments of crisis.
