Tragic Earthquake Claims Lives in Mexico Amid Widespread Panic

Sat Jan 03 2026 06:23:40 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A powerful 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck Mexico, resulting in at least two fatalities and numerous injuries. The epicenter was located near the tourist town of Acapulco, causing significant alarm and prompting evacuations.

On January 2nd, a 6.5 magnitude earthquake rocked southern and central Mexico, leading to two confirmed deaths and several injuries. The quake, with its epicenter near Acapulco, was felt across the region, triggering panic among residents and tourists. Authorities are assessing structural damages and urging the public to remain prepared for aftershocks.

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 epicentre 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, recommended by Mexico's National Disaster Prevention Center, should contain essential items like a flashlight, radio, water, non-perishable foods, clothes, and important documents.

Authorities are currently inspecting two structures for potential collapse risks and have initiated assessments for an additional 34 buildings and five homes.

Residents and tourists alike responded quickly to the earthquake alert, evacuating structures in Mexico City and Acapulco. This seismic alert system was established after a catastrophic earthquake in 1985, which resulted in over 10,000 fatalities.

President Claudia Sheinbaum was in her first press conference of the year when the earthquake occurred. A video captured her reaction as she urged reporters to all get out calmly amid shaking buildings.

With Mexico being one of the world’s most earthquake-prone nations, past incidents have left devastating impacts, including a significant 7.1 magnitude quake in 2017 that caused over 200 deaths.