6.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Southern Mexico, Causing Fatalities and Damage

A 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico on January 2, 2026, at approximately 7:58 a.m. local time. The epicenter was near San Marcos in Guerrero state, close to the Pacific resort city of Acapulco. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake occurred at a depth of 21.7 miles (35 kilometers).

The tremor resulted in at least two fatalities and several injuries. In Guerrero, a 50-year-old woman died when her home collapsed near the epicenter. In Mexico City, a 60-year-old man died after falling while evacuating his apartment. Additionally, a hospital in Chilpancingo, Guerrero's capital, sustained 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 recorded over 500 aftershocks following the initial quake. Landslides were reported around Acapulco and on highways in Guerrero. Mexico, situated between five tectonic plates, is one of the world's most seismically active countries.