Update: 6.5 magnitude earthquake shakes southern Mexico and causes preventive evacuations in the capital
A magnitude 6.5 earthquake occurred this Friday, January 2, 2026, at 7:58 local time in the center of México.
The epicenter was located close to San Marcos and Rancho Viejo, in the state of Guerrero, on the coast of Pacífico.
The telluric movement was felt intensely in Cidade of México and in other regions of the center and south of the country, activating the seismic alert.
Authorities carried out preventive evacuations in buildings.
- Civil protection protocols were immediately activated in several entities.
- There were no initial reports of fatalities or widespread destruction.
- President Claudia Sheinbaum briefly interrupted her morning conference due to the tremor.
Registered replicas
Experts monitor aftershocks after the main event.
By mid-morning, more than 150 replicas had been detected.
The largest of them reached magnitude 4.2.
These aftershocks occur in the same fault zone.
Authorities maintain vigilance to assess possible adjustments in magnitude or new shocks.
Response from authorities
Civil protection teams carried out inspections of critical infrastructure.
On Cidade of México, helicopters flew over the capital to check damage.
The head of government, Clara Brugada, coordinated actions in the 16 alcaldias.
The loudspeaker system achieved 98% alert effectiveness.
No serious problems were identified in essential services such as subways or airports.
😱 INSANE!
— DINO 🦖 (@MAGAdino)January 2, 2026
Watch this Mexico City skyscraper DANCE like crazy for over 20 seconds during today’s 6.5 quake in Guerrero! 🌎💥
Epicenter 300km away but looked LIKE THIS in CDMX! No major damage reported, but HOLY… 😳#Earthquake #Earthquake #Earthquake #Mexico #CDMX #Guerrero pic.twitter.com/xMxEUkXQPa
Perception in different regions
The earthquake was noticed in states such as Guerrero, Morelos, Puebla and Oaxaca.
In the federal capital, tall buildings swayed, leading residents to take to the streets.
At Acapulco, close to the epicenter, the tremor caused strong movement, but without initial reports of collapse.
Tourists and residents followed safety protocols.
The moderate depth of focus contributed to the broad perception of the shaking.
Continuous monitoring
Serviço Sismológico Nacional updates data in real time.
Leia Também
Intensity maps indicate light to moderate shaking over wide areas.
There is no tsunami warning issued for Mexican coasts.
Experts review information to confirm exact parameters.
The population is recommended to remain calm and follow official guidelines.
Seismic activity at México
The country records a high frequency of telluric events due to the interaction of tectonic plates.
The Cocos card subduces under the Norte-Americana card in the Pacífico region.
Guerrero is home to a significant portion of the highest energy earthquakes.
Historical events in the area include devastating tremors in past decades.
Modern warning protocols reduce risks in dense urban areas.
Preliminary impact assessment
Initial reports point to 12 people with minor injuries in Cidade of México.
Falling poles and trees were recorded in isolated points.
Two structures are undergoing a collapse risk assessment.
Power cuts temporarily affected some colonies.
Inspections of residential and commercial buildings continue in several villages.
Preparation and prevention
Authorities reinforce the importance of family emergency plans.
Buildings in Cidade of México have updated anti-seismic standards.
Regular simulations help the population respond quickly.
The early warning system provides valuable seconds for evacuation.
Keeping emergency backpacks ready is recommended in risk areas.
