Key Highlights
- Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum halted a news conference when a 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck.
- The quake was centered near San Marcos, close to the Pacific coast resort of Acapulco.
- No injuries or significant damage were reported following the tremor.
Earthquake Interrupts Mexico’s President During News Conference
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum had a firsthand look at how quickly seismic activity can disrupt daily life during an unexpected interruption at her news conference. The incident, which occurred early Friday, saw the Mexican capital and nearby regions feeling the effects of a 6.5 magnitude tremor that triggered the country’s Seismic Alert System.
Quake’s Impact on Mexico City
The seismic activity was felt strongly in Mexico City, with video footage capturing buildings swaying and cars trembling as they were shaken by the quake. The epicenter of the earthquake was located near San Marcos, a town close to the Pacific coast resort of Acapulco. This proximity meant that the tremor had significant local impact.
The Seismic Alert System, which was implemented following the devastating 1985 earthquake that claimed at least 5,000 lives, kicked into action once again.
The system promptly alerted residents to take shelter or evacuate if necessary, ensuring a swift response to the emergency situation. While some citizens rushed out of their homes and onto the streets, no immediate reports of injuries were received.
No Major Damage Reported
Despite the intensity of the earthquake, authorities reported that there was no major damage as a result. The quick reaction from both the government and the public demonstrated how well-prepared Mexico is for such events. President Sheinbaum calmly stopped her news conference to address the situation directly with her team.
“Safety first,” Sheinbaum stated, addressing the gathered journalists before resuming the conference once it was deemed safe. Her measured response underscored the effectiveness of Mexico’s disaster preparedness measures and the swift actions taken by government officials in handling such emergencies.”
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for robust emergency systems and the critical role they play in safeguarding public safety.
