Jan 12, 2025, 4:34 PM
Jan 12, 2025, 8:55 AM

A 6.2 earthquake jolts southwestern Mexico, causing no damage or casualties

Highlights
  • A magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck southwestern Mexico early Sunday, centered near Coalcomán de Vázquez Pallares.
  • Emergency protocols were activated, but no significant damage or casualties were reported.
  • The occurrence of aftershocks and the historical context of seismic activities highlight the region's vulnerability to earthquakes.
Story

On January 12, 2025, a magnitude 6.2 earthquake occurred in southwestern Mexico, as reported by the United States Geological Survey. The quake was centered approximately 21 kilometers southeast of Aquila and near the intersection of Colima and Michoacán states at a depth of 34 kilometers. Despite the tremors being felt widely, particularly in the municipality of Coalcomán de Vázquez Pallares, which is home to around 20,000 residents, there were no reports of significant damage or casualties. Social media footage showed buildings swaying, and some residents evacuated to the streets during the shaking. In the aftermath of the quake, the Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum utilized social media to communicate that emergency response teams were reviewing procedures but reported that there were no significant developments following the tremor. The Social Security Institute in Mexico noted that the capital, nearly 600 kilometers away from the epicenter, did not experience any damage, highlighting the earthquake's relatively mild impact. Following the initial quake, reports indicated there were 329 aftershocks recorded by 9 a.m. local time on the same day. The magnitude of these aftershocks was varied, with the national seismological service estimating some aftershocks as high as 6.1. Earthquakes are relatively common in this region, which is situated at the convergence of multiple tectonic plates. Over time, Mexico has experienced numerous significant earthquakes, including a devastating 8.1 quake in 1985 that resulted in thousands of fatalities. The tremor on January 12 was a reminder of the natural vulnerability of Mexico to seismic activity, particularly along its Pacific coastline. Earthquakes of various magnitudes are part of Mexico’s geological history, often encouraging a proactive response from both governmental and emergency services. Citizens in the affected areas demonstrated resilience and preparedness, with many taking necessary precautions immediately following the quakes. While this event did not have serious ramifications, it reinforced the ongoing need for awareness and readiness in a country that continues to face seismic threats.

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