On Thursday, April 17, 2025, two earthquakes of moderate magnitude shook the southern states of Guerrero and Oaxaca in Mexico, prompting concern among residents but thankfully resulting in no reported damage or injuries. According to the National Seismological Service (SSN), the first tremor struck at 08:14 hours (Mexico City time), registering a magnitude of 4.0. Its epicenter was located 70 kilometers east of Tlacolula, Oaxaca, at a depth of 61 kilometers. This initial quake was felt lightly in nearby communities, but it did not cause significant disruptions.
Just minutes later, at 08:56 hours, a second earthquake was recorded, this one measuring 4.1 in magnitude. Its epicenter was situated 37 kilometers northeast of San Marcos, Guerrero, with a depth of 39 kilometers. Similar to the first, this tremor was lightly felt along the coastal region of Guerrero. Civil Protection authorities confirmed that they are maintaining constant monitoring of seismic activity in both states, urging residents to review their safety protocols and ensure they have emergency backpacks ready.
Mexico sits on a highly seismic zone due to the interaction of several tectonic plates, making it susceptible to such natural phenomena, particularly in southern states like Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Chiapas. The country has a long history of earthquakes, some of which have caused catastrophic damage. For example, the earthquakes of 1985 and 2017 are still fresh in the minds of many Mexicans, as they resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life.
Then, on April 18, 2025, at 0:33 Central Time (6:33 UTC), a magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck near Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, catching residents off guard. The tremor was recorded 357 kilometers southwest of the city and had a depth of 10 kilometers. This earthquake added to the heightened awareness of seismic activity in the region.
In response to the recent seismic events, the National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred) has issued recommendations to the public. They advise against falling for rumors and misinformation, emphasizing the importance of relying on official sources for updates and safety guidelines. Following an earthquake, residents are encouraged to check their homes for potential damage, refrain from using phones except for emergencies, avoid lighting matches or candles until they can confirm there are no gas leaks, and remain alert for aftershocks.
Moreover, Cenapred suggests that individuals prepare for such incidents by developing a civil protection plan, organizing evacuation drills, identifying safety zones in their homes, schools, or workplaces, and assembling emergency backpacks. During an earthquake, it is crucial to stay calm and find a safe location, away from objects that could fall. If driving, it is advisable to pull over and stay away from buildings, trees, and utility poles. Those near the coast should move to higher ground to avoid potential tsunami risks.
While the recent earthquakes did not cause any immediate harm, they serve as a reminder of Mexico's vulnerability to seismic activity. Historically, the country has experienced some of the most powerful earthquakes on record. One such event occurred on March 28, 1787, when an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.6 devastated Oaxaca, then a central point of Spanish colonial rule. The aftermath of that quake included a tsunami that reached six kilometers inland.
According to the Center for Seismic Instrumentation and Recording (Cires), there is a possibility of similar high-magnitude events occurring in the future, particularly due to the geological energy accumulation in the Guerrero Gap, a region known for its seismic activity. However, it is important to note that even lower-magnitude quakes can cause significant chaos, as demonstrated by the historical earthquakes of 1985 and 2017.
The 1985 earthquake, which struck on September 19 at 7:19 AM local time (13:19 UTC), registered a magnitude of 8.2 and had its epicenter in Guerrero. It caused extensive damage and loss of life, leading to significant changes in Mexico's approach to disaster preparedness. The 2017 earthquake, which occurred between the states of Puebla and Morelos at 13:14 Central Time (18:30 UTC), resulted in 369 confirmed fatalities and widespread destruction.
As the population of Mexico remains vigilant, the recent seismic activities highlight the importance of preparedness and awareness. The government and civil protection agencies continue to work on improving safety measures, ensuring that citizens are equipped to respond effectively in the event of future earthquakes.
In summary, while the recent earthquakes in Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Jalisco did not cause damage or casualties, they remind us of the seismic risks present in Mexico. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed and prepared, as the country has a long history of significant seismic events that have shaped its landscape and the lives of its people.
