An earthquake measuring 8.1 on the Richter scale shook the Pacific coast of Mexico early Friday, September 8 (midnight local time). According to AFP, at least 15 people have been killed in the earthquake, with 10 of them in the state of Oaxaca. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the epicenter of the quake to be 165 kilometers west of the city of Tapachula in the southern state of Chiapas. A tsunami warning has been issued for Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Panama, and Honduras. Reuters reported that buildings in Mexico City, located 1000 kilometers from the epicenter, shook violently. Terrified residents poured into the streets, and power was cut in some areas. This is the strongest earthquake to hit Mexico since 1985. Manuel Velasco, the governor of Chiapas, has urged people to stay away from coastal areas due to the potential tsunami. While the western coast of Mexico is experiencing an earthquake and tsunami, the country is also preparing for severe storms in the Atlantic. Three major storms, Irma, Katia, and Jose, are currently active in the eastern waters of Mexico. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center reported waves of one meter in height recorded in Salina Cruz, Mexico, with smaller tsunamis reported in many other areas. In neighboring Guatemala, President Jimmy Morales urged citizens to remain calm while rescue teams assess the damage. Enrique Peña Nieto, the President of Mexico, stated the earthquake's magnitude was 8.2 and called it the most powerful earthquake in Mexico in the past century. According to the President, the earthquake cut power to homes of one million people. He also reported over 60 aftershocks, with the potential for aftershocks to exceed 7 on the Richter scale.
Tsunami Warning After 8.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Southern Mexico
An 8.1 magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and prompting tsunami warnings across several Central American countries. The earthquake has caused significant damage, particularly in Oaxaca and Mexico City, and has raised concerns about aftershocks and severe storms in the region.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
An 8.1 magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and prompting tsunami warnings across several Central American countries. Significant damage occurred, particularly in Oaxaca and Mexico City, with concerns about aftershocks and severe storms in the region.
- The earthquake is the strongest to hit Mexico since 1985.
- Over 60 aftershocks have been reported, with potential for further significant tremors.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Mexico is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it susceptible to earthquakes and tsunamis. The country has experienced devastating earthquakes in the past, leading to heightened awareness and preparedness measures.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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