EARTHQUAKE IN MEXICO VIA THE NATIONAL SEISMOLOGICAL SERVICE
In the context of Plate Tectonics, Mexico is located in the so-called Ring of Fire, where a large part of the seismic movements worldwide are recorded. The country is located on the North American Plate, bordered on its southern and western portion by the Cocos, Rivera, and Pacific plates.
Mexico is one of the countries in the world with the highest seismic activity, as according to statistics, more than 90 earthquakes per year with a magnitude greater than 4 on the Richter scale are recorded, which is equivalent to 60% of all seismic movements recorded worldwide.
Based on statistical records, the states with the highest risk and where large magnitude earthquakes that can affect Mexico City occur are: Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Puebla, State of Mexico, and Veracruz.
- WHAT IS THE LARGEST MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE THAT SHOOK MEXICO CITY?
- On September 19, 1985, Mexico City experienced a devastating earthquake of 8.1 magnitude, with its epicenter on the Pacific coast. It is estimated that at least 10,000 people lost their lives, affecting and collapsing thousands of housing, commercial, and public service structures.
- WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE MAGNITUDE AND INTENSITY OF AN EARTHQUAKE?
- They are scales to measure the size or impact of a tremor. The magnitude scale is obtained numerically from records obtained by seismographs and is related to the size and energy released during a tremor. The intensity scale is assigned based on the damage or effects caused to people and their constructions.
- WHY DO SO MANY EARTHQUAKES OCCUR IN MEXICO?
- In the context of Plate Tectonics, Mexico is located in the so-called Ring of Fire, where a large part of the seismic movements worldwide are recorded. The country is located on the North American Plate, bordered on its southern and western portion by the Cocos, Rivera, and Pacific plates.
What should my emergency backpack have?
It should contain the essentials to survive in the first hours after an earthquake:
– Hygiene items
– First aid kit with bandages, alcohol, gauze, pills, among others
– Warm clothing
– Non-perishable foods such as tuna, energy bars, chocolates, and nuts, as well as cash
– Radio or flashlight with batteries
– Specific items according to needs, such as products for babies, elderly adults, or pets
What to do after an earthquake?
Check for injured people, turn off gas and electricity leaks, avoid using the elevator, and stay away from damaged structures. If you are in a coastal area, check for tsunami alerts.
Earthquake 134 km SOUTH of ACAPULCO, GRO
Magnitude 3.6
Date: 2026-07-16
Time: 04:45:53 (Central Time)
Latitude: 15.667º
Longitude: -100.052º
Depth: 71.0 km
Earthquake 15 km WEST of PINOTEPA NACIONAL, OAX
Magnitude 3.8
Date: 2026-07-16
Time: 04:32:31 (Central Time)
Latitude: 16.325º
Longitude: -98.194º
Depth: 19.2 km
Earthquake 17 km NORTHWEST of SAN MARCOS, GRO
Magnitude 3.1
Date: 2026-07-16
Time: 03:53:26 (Central Time)
Latitude: 16.840º
Longitude: -99.543º
Depth: 23.3 km
What to do if I am on the street when an earthquake starts?
Look for an open place away from poles, trees, or buildings. Beware of electrical wires. If you are driving, stop carefully in a safe place.
How to know if an earthquake is strong?
There are two ways:
– Magnitude, measured on the Richter scale, indicates the energy released.
– Intensity, measured on the Mercalli scale, measures the impact on people and structures.
How is a tremor different from an earthquake?
Both are movements of the Earth, but we usually call “earthquake” those of greater magnitude and destructive impact, while “tremor” is used for milder quakes.
Why are several magnitudes reported for the same earthquake?
Because the first information comes from nearby stations and is adjusted as more data arrives from different sensors. Science continues calculating after the first alert.
How do we know an earthquake will happen?
Earthquakes cannot be predicted, but seismographs and accelerographs detect ground movements in real time to alert us as quickly as possible.
What to do before an earthquake
• Have your emergency backpack ready.
• Identify safe zones at home, work, and on the street.
• Participate in drills.
What to do during an earthquake
• Stay calm.
• Protect yourself under a sturdy table or in the life triangle.
• Stay away from windows and objects that could fall.
What to do after an earthquake
• Assess damage and check for injured people.
• Use text messages to communicate and avoid overloading phone lines.
• Stay away from damaged buildings and follow authorities’ instructions.
- Is it normal for more earthquakes to occur in the same place after a strong earthquake?
When a considerable magnitude earthquake occurs, the rocks near the rupture zone undergo a readjustment. During this process, a series of earthquakes known as Aftershocks are generated in this area, which are of lesser magnitude and can occur minutes, days, and even years after the main event. The number of these aftershocks can vary from a few to hundreds of events.
Evening seismicity report 2026-07-15 including all located earthquakes of magnitude less than 4.0 updated until 17:00 hours:
Evening seismicity report 2026-07-15 including all located earthquakes of magnitude less than 4.0 updated until 17:00 hours, available at: https://t.co/MmEswi0AEk
— Sismologico Nacional (@SismologicoMX) July 16, 2026
- How are earthquakes detected?
- As seismic waves propagate, they cause ground movement where they pass. To record these movements, equipment called seismographs or accelerographs are used, whose operating principle, based on the inertia of bodies, consists of a mass suspended by a spring that allows it to remain at rest for some moments relative to ground movement. If a pencil that can draw on paper attached to a cylinder rotating at a constant speed is attached to the suspended mass, a record of ground movement or seismogram is obtained.
- Modern seismographs use this same operating principle, but for implementation, they use mechanical and electronic components to obtain an electrical signal proportional to ground movement, which can be stored locally or transmitted by some communication means (phone, radio, satellite) to an acquisition center.
- Do all regions of Mexico face the same risk?
No. The coastal states of the Pacific Ocean, such as Guerrero, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Michoacán, and Jalisco, are the most exposed to earthquakes. Interior areas, such as Mexico City, feel strong shakes when large earthquakes occur because the city is built on the bed of an ancient lake that acts like gelatin, shaking violently when seismic waves pass.
To properly face the emergency caused by an earthquake, prepare your emergency backpack with the following items:
- Flashlight: it is possible that the earthquake movement damages the lighting installations, so it is important to have a flashlight with batteries.
- Radio without internet, TV, or phone networks: this device will allow us to stay informed, accompanied, and attentive to any alerts as well as recommendations issued by authorities
- Water: use bottled water, preferably non-carbonated.
- Non-perishable food: Canned food is always a good option. Choose lightweight, personal-sized, easy-to-open foods that provide energy.
- Warm clothing: blanket, clothes, raincoat, and extra shoes to change if they get wet.
- Lighter or matches.
- Whistle: generally used to request help if trapped.
- Photocopy of all your important documents or saved on a USB.
- Copy of your house keys: you may lose your keys in the rush and nerves when leaving your house, so it is recommended to have a copy.
- Medicines or milk cans: If there are babies, people with medical treatment, or elderly people in a family, some specific products such as bottles, baby food, medicines, milk cans, and diapers should be included.
- What is a seismic zone?
A seismic zone, also known as a seismic region, is a geographic area where seismic activity is frequent. Understanding these areas is important for geology and civil engineering, as it allows you to prepare for an earthquake and take measures to protect both people and infrastructure.
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- Recommendations to strengthen seismic safety
Preparation for earthquakes is essential for both citizens and companies. For this reason, implementing appropriate measures and having specialized resources can make a difference in protecting lives and property.
- Citizens
- Family Emergency Plan: Include evacuation routes, meeting points, and emergency contacts.
- Emergency Kit: Bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlight, first aid kit, and important documents.
- Regular Drills: Participate in organized evacuation drills to familiarize yourself with safety procedures.
- Companies
- Risk Assessment: Identify vulnerabilities in infrastructure and operating systems.
- Seismic-resistant Design: Use appropriate materials and techniques to mitigate damage during an earthquake.
- Seismic protection solutions: Implement cabinets and racks designed to withstand seismic events, ensuring the safety and operability of critical equipment.
- How to act during an earthquake?
• Go to the already established safety zones.
• Stay away from glass or objects that could fall.
• Avoid panic as much as possible and try to stay calm.
• Do not run in vehicle passage areas.
• If driving, stop your vehicle.
• If in a building, do not use the elevator, always use the stairs.
• Be attentive to minors, disabled people, and the elderly.
- Where is there the most seismicity in Mexico?
Based on statistical records, the Civil Protection Secretariat of Mexico City reports that the states with the highest risk and where large magnitude earthquakes that can affect CDMX occur are: Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Puebla, State of Mexico, and Veracruz.
The National Seismological Service (SSN) is a crucial organization responsible for monitoring, studying, and providing information about seismic activity in the country. It plays a vital role in ensuring public safety and preparedness for seismic events.
- The states with the highest risk and where large magnitude earthquakes that can affect Mexico City occur are Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Puebla, State of Mexico, and Veracruz.
- How often should the survival kit be checked?
It is recommended to check the backpack every 6 months to verify the expiration date of food, water, and medicines, as well as the condition of the batteries.
- Where should the emergency backpack be stored?
It should be located in a visible, dry, and easily accessible place, preferably near the main exit door of the home.
- Can an earthquake be predicted?
Currently, it is impossible to determine, as the Earth itself presents a wide dynamic regarding its movements, considering that it is not only about predicting when it will tremble, but also determining the intensity, magnitude, depth, and other important factors.
- What are the functions of the Seismological Service in Mexico?
The functions of the SSN include:
Collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information about seismic activity in Mexico.
Generating reports on seismic activity in Mexico.
Issuing seismic alerts.
Developing and operating early seismic warning systems.
Conducting scientific research on seismology.
Training personnel in seismology.
- What number to call in case of earthquakes in Mexico?
In case of an earthquake in Mexico, the emergency numbers to call are:
Emergency service: 911
Civil Protection Secretariat: 56 83 22 22
Police: 060
Red Cross: 065 and 53 95 11 11
Firefighters: 57 68 25 32
Locatel: 56 58 11 11 “
- How much should the survival backpack weigh?
The ideal weight should not exceed 25% of the body weight of the person who will carry it, ensuring a quick and agile evacuation.
- Can an earthquake be predicted?
Currently, it is impossible to determine, as the Earth itself presents a wide dynamic regarding its movements, considering that it is not only about predicting when it will tremble, but also determining the intensity, magnitude, depth, and other important factors.
- Earthquake 119 km southwest of Gabriel Leyva Solano (Benito Juárez), Guasave, Sinaloa
Magnitude: 4.2
Date and time: 15/07/26 09:55:17
Latitude: 24.727
Longitude: -109.204
Depth: 14.9 km
- Earthquake 42 km west of Cintalapa, Chiapas
Magnitude: 4.3
Date and time: 15/07/26 07:58:07
Latitude: 16.607
Longitude: -94.106
Depth: 128.6 km
Earthquake 31 km SOUTHWEST of TONALA
- Local Date and Time: 2026-07-15 04:55:00
- Magnitude: 3.1
- Depth: 91.2 km
- Latitude: 15.858
- Longitude: -93.929
Earthquake 10 km SOUTH of S PEDRO POCHUTLA
- Local Date and Time: 2026-07-15 03:57:56
- Magnitude: 4.1
- Depth: 27.9 km
- Latitude: 15.656
- Longitude: -96.446
Earthquake 138 km SOUTHWEST of CD HIDALGO
- Local Date and Time: 2026-07-15 01:34:21
- Magnitude: 4.1
- Depth: 23.2 km
- Latitude: 14.022
- Longitude: -93.238
Earthquake 302 km SOUTHWEST of PUERTO VALLARTA
- Local Date and Time: 2026-07-15 01:06:51
- Magnitude: 4.1
- Depth: 5.0
- Latitude: 18.834
- Longitude: -107.415
WHAT IS THE LARGEST MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE THAT SHOOK MEXICO CITY?
On September 19, 1985, Mexico City experienced a devastating earthquake of 8.1 magnitude, with its epicenter on the Pacific coast.
It is estimated that at least 10,000 people lost their lives, affecting and collapsing thousands of housing, commercial, and public service structures.
WHAT IS AN EARTHQUAKE?
An earthquake is a sudden rupture of rocks inside the Earth. This sudden release of energy propagates in the form of waves that cause ground movement.
HOW LONG DOES AN EARTHQUAKE LAST AND WHY DOES THE SSN NOT REPORT THIS DATA?
When we talk about the duration of an earthquake, we can refer to several different concepts: One is the duration of the movement perceived by humans, another is the duration of the instrumental record (which can be several minutes), and another is the time the fault movement that caused the earthquake lasted (which can be a few seconds).
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE MAGNITUDE AND INTENSITY OF AN EARTHQUAKE?
They are scales to measure the size or impact of a tremor. The magnitude scale is obtained numerically from records obtained by seismographs and is related to the size and energy released during a tremor. The intensity scale is assigned based on the damage or effects caused to people and their constructions.
WHY DO SO MANY EARTHQUAKES OCCUR IN MEXICO?
In the context of Plate Tectonics, Mexico is located in the so-called Ring of Fire, where a large part of the seismic movements worldwide are recorded. The country is located on the North American Plate, bordered on its southern and western portion by the Cocos, Rivera, and Pacific plates.
Mexico is one of the countries in the world with the highest seismic activity, as according to statistics, more than 90 earthquakes per year with a magnitude greater than 4 on the Richter scale are recorded, which is equivalent to 60% of all seismic movements recorded worldwide.
What was the magnitude and where was the last tremor in Mexico? Watch live here the reports from the National Seismological Service (SSN) about earthquakes in the country.
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