Magnitude 7.4 earthquake hits southern Mexico; no major damage reported

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake jolted the southern coast of Mexico on Friday, prompting tsunami warnings and widespread concern, though initial reports indicate no major damage.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) registered the preliminary magnitude of the tremor, which was centered 48 kilometers southwest of Aquiles Serdan in the Mexican state of Chiapas. The shaking was felt across neighboring Guatemala and El Salvador.

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Following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake southwest of Huixtla and those recorded in Ciudad Hidalgo, I spoke with the governors of Chiapas and Tabasco, states that report no damage at this time. Protocols are being activated in neighbouring states. The Secretariat of the Navy recommends not approaching those beaches in the next six hours due to tsunami risk. It is important to follow Civil Protection recommendations. Authorities from all three levels of government are conducting inspections in the territory to assess possible structural impacts and coordinate preventive measures. We will continue with updates.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed via X that no damage had been reported in the immediate aftermath. However, she urged the public to exercise caution, advising against approaching beaches due to the potential risk of a tsunami and emphasizing the importance of following Civil Protection recommendations. Safety measures were activated across affected states.

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Tsunami waves up to one meter above the tide level are possible for the coasts of Guatemala and Mexico.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a caution for potentially hazardous waves within a 300-kilometer radius of the epicenter, predicting waves up to one meter above tide levels for the coasts of Guatemala and Mexico. Guatemala's seismology institute later downgraded the threat level.

While authorities reported no fatalities or widespread destruction, local emergency services in Chiapas addressed minor structural concerns, including gas leaks and collapsed ceiling panels. CNN reported at least two injuries: one person who jumped from a third-story building and another injured by a falling door at a car dealership. The Governor of Oaxaca, Salomon Jara Cruz, stated the quake was felt with "moderate intensity" but confirmed no significant damage in the state capital.

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There is no serious damage. Regarding maritime conditions, water levels at some beaches are expected to rise by up to half a meter due to the earthquake. The public is advised to stay away from beaches for the time being.