A magnitude 5.1 earthquake was felt this afternoon in the Oaxaca Coast region, with its preliminary epicenter north of Pinotepa Nacional, according to a report from the National Seismological Service (SASMEX) shared on social media.
The earthquake occurred at 4:33 p.m. (Central Mexico time) and was detected by the Mexican Seismic Alert System (SASMEX). However, the seismic alert was not activated because the energy released in the first few seconds did not reach the levels necessary to issue a warning to the population.
So far, local authorities in Mexico City, as well as state authorities in Oaxaca, have not reported any material damage or injuries, but constant monitoring is being maintained in the area, reported the Oaxaca State Civil Protection Coordination (CEPCO).
Why wasn’t the alert sounded during the earthquake?
The alert system in Mexico is only activated when an earthquake is expected to exceed certain intensity levels in densely populated areas. In this case, although the shaking was noticeable in several communities near the epicenter, the magnitude and energy of the earthquake were not sufficient to trigger the preventive warning protocol.
However, people reported on social media that in some areas of downtown Mexico City, although mild, it was felt. Therefore, the capital’s authorities urge citizens to remain calm, check structures and basic services, and report any damage to the emergency number 911 or the nearest Civil Protection offices.
They also remind residents of the importance of having an emergency backpack and identifying a family meeting point in case of major earthquakes.
Pinotepa Nacional is located in one of the most seismically active areas in the country, on the South Pacific coast, where the Cocos and North American tectonic plates converge. Earthquakes are common in this area, although not all are of high magnitude or pose a major risk to the population.
Source: culturacolectiva
