Mexico earthquake today, earthquake in Mexico, Mexico City earthquake, Acapulco earthquake, magnitude 6.5 earthquake
MEXICO CITY — A strong earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.5 rattled southern and central Mexico today, Friday, January 2, 2026, sending residents into the streets and briefly interrupting President Claudia Sheinbaum’s first press briefing of the new year.
The temblor, which struck in the morning hours, was felt distinctly across the capital, Mexico City, and the coastal resort city of Acapulco, reviving memories of past seismic events in the geologically active nation.
Quick Facts: Mexico Earthquake Today
- Date: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Magnitude: 6.5 (Preliminary)
- Epicenter: Near San Marcos, Guerrero (approx. 4km NNW of Rancho Viejo)
- Time: 7:58 AM Local Time (1:58 PM UTC)
- Depth: 35 km (21.7 miles)
- Affected Areas: Guerrero, Mexico City, Morelos, Oaxaca
Tremors Interrupt President Sheinbaum’s Briefing
The earthquake occurred at approximately 7:58 AM local time, coinciding with President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference at the National Palace. Seismic alarms blared across the capital, prompting an immediate evacuation protocol.
Video footage showed the President calmly pausing her address and leading officials to safety as the alarms sounded. Sheinbaum returned to the podium shortly after to address the nation, stating she had already been in contact with Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado.
"We have spoken with the governor, and fortunately, there are no immediate reports of major damage or casualties," Sheinbaum confirmed upon resuming the briefing.
Epicenter Near Acapulco and San Marcos
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Mexico’s National Seismological Service (SSN), the quake’s epicenter was located in the state of Guerrero, near the town of San Marcos and about 57 miles northeast of Acapulco.
While the 6.5 magnitude quake was powerful enough to sway buildings in Mexico City—located hundreds of miles away—the depth of 35 km may have helped mitigate catastrophic surface damage.
Impact and Damage Assessment
Authorities in Acapulco and surrounding areas in Guerrero have reported minor landslides on highways, but critical infrastructure remains intact.
- Acapulco: Tourists and residents evacuated hotels and homes as the ground shook. No tsunami warning has been issued.
- Mexico City: The seismic alert system gave residents roughly 60 seconds of warning before the shaking began. Power outages have been reported in isolated neighborhoods, but the metro system and airport are operating normally after standard safety checks.
Safety Tips for Residents and Travelers
For US citizens and residents in the affected areas, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico advises monitoring local media for updates.
- Expect Aftershocks: It is common for aftershocks to follow a quake of this size.
- Check Gas Lines: Do not use matches or lighters until you are sure there are no gas leaks.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from Protección Civil and the USGS.
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