6.5-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Southern and Central Mexico

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern and central Mexico on Friday, with its epicenter near San Marcos in Guerrero state, close to the Pacific coast resort of Acapulco. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake occurred at a depth of 21.7 miles (35 kilometers), approximately 2.5 miles north-northwest of Rancho Viejo, Guerrero.

The state's civil defense agency reported landslides around Acapulco and on other highways in Guerrero. Residents and tourists in Mexico City and Acapulco evacuated buildings as seismic alarms sounded.

President Claudia Sheinbaum's first press briefing of the new year was interrupted by the earthquake. She resumed shortly after, stating she had spoken with Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado, who reported no serious damage.

Local resident and human rights advocate José Raymundo Díaz Taboada described hearing a strong rumble and barking dogs before the seismic alert sounded. He noted the shaking was lighter than in some previous quakes but prepared to evacuate as aftershocks continued. Communication issues were reported, particularly with areas like Costa Chica, southeast of Acapulco.