Magnitude 7.3 Earthquake in Southern Mexico Prompts Tsunami Alert

A powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck southern Mexico near its border with Guatemala on Friday, triggering a tsunami alert. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the main tremor, which occurred offshore in the Pacific at a depth of 15 km. A subsequent magnitude 5.3 aftershock was also recorded.

The earthquake's epicenter was located about 50 kilometers from Tapachula in the state of Chiapas. Shortly after the main quake, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a tsunami alert. The tremors were felt in the neighboring state of Oaxaca, as well as in Guatemala and El Salvador.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated via X that local governments had reported no major damage so far, but emergency protocols had been activated. "Authorities at different government levels are conducting field assessments to evaluate potential structural damage and coordinate preventive measures," she added. Some scenes of panic were observed in the few high-rise buildings in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the capital of Chiapas.

Authorities are warning of potential sea-level variations of slightly over a meter along Mexico's southern Pacific coast. Residents have been urged to move away from coastal areas as a precautionary measure. The situation is developing, with ongoing assessments of any potential impacts.

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Authorities at different government levels are conducting field assessments to evaluate potential structural damage and coordinate preventive measures.