6.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Southern Mexico, Causing Fatalities and Damage

A 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico on January 2, 2026, with its epicenter near San Marcos in Guerrero state, close to 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 tremor resulted in at least two fatalities. A 50-year-old woman died when her home collapsed near the epicenter, and a 60-year-old man in Mexico City died from injuries sustained during evacuation. Additionally, 12 people were reported injured in the capital.

Structural damage included landslides around Acapulco and on other highways in Guerrero. A hospital in Chilpancingo suffered major structural damage, leading to patient evacuations.

Residents and tourists in Mexico City and Acapulco evacuated buildings as seismic alarms sounded. President Claudia Sheinbaum's press briefing was interrupted by the quake but resumed shortly after. Sheinbaum stated that she had spoken with Guerrero's Governor Evelyn Salgado, who reported no serious damage.

The Mexican national seismological agency reported over 500 aftershocks following the initial quake.