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New Delhi: A strong earthquake struck Mexico’s southern Pacific coast on Friday. Its intensity was measured at 7.4 on the Richter scale. The tremors were so severe that people panicked and came out of the buildings. A tsunami warning was also issued after the earthquake and tremors were felt as far as Guatemala and El Salvador.

The epicenter of the earthquake was near the Chiapas coast.   

According to the US Geological Survey, the epicenter of the earthquake was near Puerto Madero, off the Chiapas coast. Initially the depth was said to be 10 kilometers, later it was believed to be about 15 kilometers near Aquiles Cerdan.

The earthquake was immediately followed by several aftershocks of magnitude 5.2, 5.8 and 6.1. The US tsunami warning system issued an alert within 300 kilometers of the center. The warning said that waves up to one meter higher than normal tide could occur on the coasts of Mexico and Guatemala.

Panic in Central America   

Earthquake tremors were not limited to Mexico only. Buildings in Guatemala City began to shake and people left their offices and took to the streets during rush hour. Tremors were also felt in El Salvador. The tremors gradually intensified in Tapachula, southern Mexico.

In a government hospital, the people present on the second floor first waited, then seeing the situation worsening, evacuated the building in an organized manner. Administrative employee Alejandra Mendoza said that "At first I thought it would pass, but when it got stronger, we all went down to the courtyard." Videos viral on social media show buildings shaking, goods falling from shelves and people running out.

No news of loss of life or property   

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said there were no reports of any major damage from Chiapas and Tabasco. Officials are keeping an eye on the situation. Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo also confirmed that no deaths have been reported so far.

He appealed to the people to remain calm and follow safety instructions. The Mexican Navy has advised people in coastal areas to stay away from the beaches for a few hours. The impact of the tsunami is being monitored in border towns like Suchiate.

No alert in Mexico City  

Despite the intensity of the earthquake, no alert was sounded in Mexico City. The government says that the energy released in the initial seconds was not to the extent required for an alert. Officials are currently assessing aftershocks and possible damage. Such a major earthquake in this densely populated area raises concerns, even if initial reports do not show devastation.