In brief
A magnitude 6.5 earthquake struck near the tourist town of Acapulco, Mexico, leading to two confirmed deaths and several injuries. Local officials are assessing buildings for safety while encouraging residents to prepare emergency supplies. The tremors have highlighted Mexico's ongoing vulnerability to seismic events.
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 stated that aftershocks from Friday's earthquake continued to be felt.
She urged locals to 'remain calm' and 'always keep the Life Backpack ready'. This is an emergency kit recommended by Mexico's National Disaster Prevention Center to help survive the first hours of disaster, which should include essential items like a flashlight, radio, water, non-perishable foods, warm clothing, and important documents.
Two structures are currently being evaluated for potential collapse, and as a preventive measure, 34 buildings and five homes are being inspected.
Following the Mexican Seismic Alert System's alarm, residents and tourists rushed into the streets of Mexico City and Acapulco. The seismic system was implemented after the deadly 1985 earthquake resulted in over 10,000 fatalities.
President Claudia Sheinbaum was holding her first press conference of the year when the earthquake struck. In a video capturing the moment, she is heard saying 'it's shaking' as the earthquake alert rings in the background, instructing media members to 'all get out calmly'. Footage shows buildings shaking in Mexico City and cars trembling in Acapulco, Guerrero.
Mexico is one of the world's most seismically active countries, having faced significant earthquakes in the past, including a 7.1 magnitude quake in 2017 that killed over 200 people.
