A Powerful Earthquake in Southern Mexico Shakes Neighboring Countries A significant earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale struck southern Mexico on Friday, sending tremors across Guatemala and El Salvador. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake’s epicenter was located 48 kilometers southwest of Aquiles Serdán, a town in the Mexican state of Chiapas. The tremors caused moderate to severe shaking along the coastal regions, prompting the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) to issue a caution that hazardous tsunami waves could affect areas within 300 kilometers of the epicenter. Guatemala observed several small tsunami waves, with water levels rising less than one meter above the tide. However, authorities stated the threat was minimal, and the PTWC later confirmed the danger had subsided. Mexico’s Secretary of the Navy, Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles, assured that no major issues had arisen in the country following the quake. He noted that while some beaches experienced water levels rising by up to half a meter, the public was advised to avoid coastal areas temporarily. No fatalities have been reported in Mexico at this time, according to the government. However, at least four people were injured in Chiapas, where authorities addressed gas leaks, collapsed walls, detached ceiling panels, and minor structural damage. The state’s civil protection service confirmed these incidents. Salomón Jara Cruz, governor of Oaxaca, reported that the quake was felt with moderate intensity in the state’s capital but noted no significant damage. Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo announced that no deaths had been confirmed yet, with emergency response teams actively deploying. At least one person was hospitalized, and several homes and buildings sustained damage.#usgs #mexico #el_salvador #guatemala #pacific_tsunami_warning_center
Earthquake of Magnitude 7.6 strikes Neiafu in Tonga: USGS A powerful earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale struck Neiafu, Tonga, according to the United States Geological Survey. The tremor occurred on March 24, 2026, and was recorded at a depth of approximately 350 kilometers, which is considered a significant distance beneath the Earth’s surface. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center stated that no tsunami alert was issued, as the earthquake’s depth reduced the likelihood of a destructive wave reaching coastal areas. Neiafu, a small town located on the island of Tongatapu, is known for its proximity to the capital, Nukuʻalofa. While the region is not uncommon for seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, the magnitude of this quake raised concerns among local authorities and residents. However, the depth of the event, combined with its location away from the coast, minimized the risk of widespread damage or loss of life. The USGS reported that the earthquake’s epicenter was approximately 120 kilometers east of Neiafu. Preliminary data suggested that the tremor was felt across several islands in the archipelago, though no immediate reports of structural damage or casualties were confirmed. Local emergency services remained on standby to monitor the situation and assist any affected communities. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center emphasized that while deep earthquakes can sometimes trigger tsunamis, the specific characteristics of this event—particularly its depth and location—made such an occurrence highly unlikely. Officials urged residents to stay informed through official channels and to follow any additional safety guidelines if necessary.#usgs #neiafu #tonga #pacific_tsunami_warning_center #tongatapu
