At least two people have died after a powerful earthquake hit southern and central Mexico on Friday. CBS, the BBC's news partner in America, reported that as of Friday evening local time, two people were killed and several injured.
The epicenter of the 6.5 magnitude earthquake was near the popular tourist town of Acapulco, near San Marcos in the southwestern state of Guerrero. A woman, 50, is believed to have died in Guerrero, state governor Evelyn Salgado said, while Clara Brugada, Mexico City's mayor, confirmed the death of a 60-year-old man. She also said 12 people were injured. Brugada said aftershocks from Friday's earthquake continued to be felt.
She urged locals to remain calm and always keep the Life Backpack ready. This emergency backpack should include essential items such as a flashlight, radio, water, non-perishable foods, warm clothing, and copies of important documents.
Brugada stated that evaluations were ongoing for two structures at risk of collapse, along with inspections of 34 buildings and five homes being conducted as a precaution. Following the early seismic alert, residents and tourists rushed into the streets of Mexico City and Acapulco.
The seismic alert system was introduced after the devastating 1985 earthquake that claimed over 10,000 lives. President Claudia Sheinbaum was holding her first press conference of the year when the earthquake struck. Video captured the president advising calm as the shaking occurred.
Mexico is among the world's most seismically active nations; in 2017, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake killed over 200 people and caused significant damage in Mexico City.
