A strong earthquake struck parts of southern and central Mexico on Friday, causing widespread panic and briefly interrupting President Claudia Sheinbaum’s New Year press briefing. The tremor registered 6.4 on the Richter scale and was considered potentially dangerous.

The earthquake’s epicenter was near San Marcos in the southern state of Guerrero, approximately 57 miles northwest of the popular tourist destination Acapulco. The tremor was felt at around 7:58 AM local time, with a depth of roughly 6.21 miles.

During the live press conference at the National Palace, sirens sounded and the building visibly shook. President Sheinbaum calmly instructed everyone to evacuate, ensuring journalists and staff exited safely. So far, two deaths have been confirmed.

In a small village near the epicenter, a 50-year-old woman died when her home collapsed. Additionally, a hospital in Chilpancingo sustained significant damage, forcing patients to be relocated to safe areas.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake’s epicenter was about 35 km deep under Rancho Viejo. India’s National Center for Seismology (NCS) recorded the event at 7:28 PM IST, with a depth of 40 km. Over 500 aftershocks have been reported since the main tremor, causing further concern.

The quake disrupted daily life in Mexico City, Acapulco, and surrounding areas, with residents rushing out of homes and offices. At Hospital La Raza, parts of the parking area roof collapsed, though no major injuries were reported there.

President Sheinbaum later addressed the press, confirming coordination with Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado to assess damages and implement relief measures. Landslides and collapsed roads have affected transportation, prompting authorities to increase alert levels across the region.

The earthquake highlighted Mexico’s vulnerability to seismic activity, disrupting daily routines and official events at the start of the New Year. Authorities continue monitoring aftershocks and coordinating relief efforts to ensure public safety.