A powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.4 shakes the coast of Mexico and triggers a tsunami alert

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale shook the coast of Mexico on Friday, triggering a tsunami warning. The tremor struck near the Mexican town of Puerto Madero in the southern state of Chiapas, causing buildings to shake in neighboring countries Guatemala and El Salvador. According to reports from Reuters, the seismic activity has raised concerns about potential coastal flooding, though authorities have so far reported no serious damage or casualties. The quake occurred at approximately 8:48 local time, with its epicenter located 135 kilometers southwest of the city of Hidalgo, close to the border with Guatemala. The National Seismological Service confirmed the event, noting that while the tremor was felt in Mexico City, it did not trigger an alert in the capital. The shaking was particularly noticeable in Tapachula, the largest city along Mexico’s southern border, where residents described the experience as unsettling due to the duration of the quake. Alejandro Mendoza, an administrative worker at a hospital in Tapachula, told Associated Press that he and others were on the second floor when the tremor began. Initially thinking it would pass quickly, they soon realized the intensity and evacuated orderly to the courtyard. Similar reactions were reported in Guatemala City, where the quake caused alarm among residents. The prolonged nature of the tremor led to widespread concern and prompted immediate safety measures. The Mexican Navy's Secretary, Admiral Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles, stated during a preliminary assessment that there was no evidence of severe impacts from the earthquake. However, he advised caution due to the anticipated rise in coastal water levels, estimated at around half a meter in some areas, as part of the tsunami effect. The warning highlights the possibility of unusual sea level changes up to 105 centimeters above normal tide levels in the region affected by the quake. The National Center for Tsunami Alert, under the Mexican Navy, issued a bulletin indicating that based on initial data and historical records of tsunamis generated in Mexico, such variations in sea levels could occur. Despite these warnings, officials emphasized that there was currently no indication of major problems. The situation remains under constant monitoring by the Protection Civil Department of Chiapas, which has activated emergency protocols and is keeping a close watch over the area. Local media reported that hundreds of workers in public and private buildings were evacuated as a precautionary measure following the quake. Emergency procedures were immediately put into place, reflecting the seriousness with which the incident is being handled. While the immediate effects appear manageable, the ongoing vigilance underscores the potential risks associated with such seismic events in the region. Authorities continue to assess the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.