Devastating 7.4 earthquake strikes Mexico, Tsunami alert issued

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake jolted southern Mexico's coast on Friday, prompting immediate tsunami warnings for the Pacific region. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake occurred near Puerto Madero in Chiapas state at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles), increasing the potential for significant ground shaking and damage.

The U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued a caution that dangerous tsunami waves could reach coastlines within 300 kilometers (186 miles) of the epicenter. Coastal residents were warned to remain alert and follow emergency procedures. The tremor was widely felt across southern Mexico, as well as in neighboring Guatemala and El Salvador, causing people to evacuate buildings in panic.

Local media broadcast footage of emergency evacuations underway. Officials in Mexico's Oaxaca state reported moderate intensity shaking, while Guatemalan authorities confirmed widespread tremors. As of Friday, there were no initial reports of casualties or major structural damage, though rescue teams were still assessing the impact on infrastructure in the affected areas.

Southern Mexico is highly vulnerable to seismic activity due to its location where the Cocos Plate subducts beneath the North American Plate. This geological setting makes the region prone to strong earthquakes and potential tsunamis. Authorities are closely monitoring for aftershocks and any changes in the tsunami risk.