Mexico, Central American countries rattled by powerful earthquake

A powerful earthquake rattled the coast of Chiapas, Mexico, on Friday, sending shockwaves across the region and prompting a temporary tsunami alert. The 7.3-magnitude tremor forced residents to scramble for safety as homes and businesses swayed across Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

Details from the epicenter

According to data from Reuters, the U.S. Geological Survey pinpointed the quake at approximately 8:48 a.m. local time. The seismic event originated off the coast of Mexico’s southernmost state at a depth of 9.4 miles. The USGS website confirmed a series of aftershocks, including one measuring 6.0 in magnitude. Thankfully, there are no immediate reports of deaths or catastrophic structural damage.

Tsunami alert and regional concern

The U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued a brief alert for coastlines within 186 miles of the epicenter, warning that tide levels could rise by one to three feet. That warning was ultimately canceled.

The seismic activity comes on the heels of devastating 7.2- and 7.4-magnitude earthquakes that claimed nearly 4,000 lives in Venezuela just weeks ago. That recent tragedy was fresh in the minds of many, including Guatemala City accountant Alexander Valdez.

“I got really scared, and it reminded me of the recent earthquake in Venezuela,” Valdez told Reuters after fleeing his eighth-floor apartment. “I ran out and went down the stairs because I live on the eighth floor. The shaking wouldn’t stop.”

205focus.com will continue to monitor updates regarding any lingering impacts from this seismic event.