A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast of southern Mexico near the Guatemala border on Friday, prompting tsunami warnings and triggering tremors across several Central American countries. While the quake caused widespread panic, authorities said there were no reported fatalities or major structural damage, though two people were injured in Mexico.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicentre was located about 48 kilometres southwest of Aquiles Serdan in Chiapas at a depth of 15 kilometres. The main quake was preceded by a smaller offshore tremor and followed by at least 10 aftershocks, ranging between magnitudes 4.9 and 6.0.

Tsunami Warning Issued

Following the earthquake, Mexican authorities issued tsunami alerts for coastal areas. The country’s navy advised residents and visitors to stay away from beaches for at least six hours, while Chiapas’ Meteorological Service warned that waves of up to one metre could reach parts of the Mexican and Guatemalan coastlines.

Officials closely monitored coastal communities for any unusual sea activity before gradually assessing the situation.

Two Injured in Southern Mexico

In the border city of Tapachula, the earthquake forced residents to evacuate homes, hospitals and public buildings.

One woman reportedly suffered fractures after jumping from an apartment building during the tremor following a panic attack. Another person sustained minor injuries after being struck by broken glass from a damaged window.

Emergency services responded quickly, and both injured individuals received medical treatment.

Tremors Felt Across Central America

The earthquake was also felt in Guatemala, where residents evacuated buildings as prolonged shaking spread through the capital and nearby regions.

Authorities temporarily suspended in-person classes in several western departments as a precaution, while disaster management officials reported no immediate large-scale damage.

The tremor was also experienced in El Salvador, although officials there confirmed no casualties or significant destruction.

No Major Damage Reported

Despite the earthquake’s strength, preliminary assessments from Mexican authorities indicated that major infrastructure remained intact.

Officials continued inspecting affected areas while monitoring aftershocks and coastal conditions throughout the day.

Southern Mexico is among the world’s most seismically active regions due to the interaction of several tectonic plates, making earthquakes a frequent occurrence.

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FAQs

1. How strong was the Mexico earthquake?
The earthquake measured 7.3 on the Richter scale.

2. Where did the earthquake occur?
It struck off the Pacific coast near Chiapas, close to the Guatemala border.

3. Was a tsunami warning issued?
Yes. Mexican authorities issued tsunami warnings and advised people to avoid beaches as a precaution.

4. Were there any casualties?
No deaths were reported, but two people were injured in southern Mexico.

5. How many aftershocks followed the main quake?
The USGS recorded at least 10 aftershocks, ranging from magnitude 4.9 to 6.0.

6. Which countries felt the earthquake?
The tremor was felt across Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, with reports of shaking in several regions.

7. Was there major structural damage?
Authorities said preliminary inspections found no significant damage.

8. Why is southern Mexico prone to earthquakes?
The region lies along active tectonic plate boundaries, making it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the Americas.