A magnitude-7.1 earthquake has ripped through Mexico, with its epicenter just over 120 kilometers from the country’s capital Mexico City.
According to news sites, there have already been 139 confirmed deaths reported; most of which took place in Puebla, Morelos and Mexico states, and Mexico City.
Extensive videos footage have emerged online of buildings crumbling during the quake, many were suburban apartment buildings.
This is the second time the country has been hit by a violent earthquake in less than a month, with a magnitude-8.1 quake slamming the state of Oaxaca just 12 days ago.
This morning’s quake also took place on the anniversary of 1985’s devastating earthquake which took the lives of an estimated 5,000 – 45,000 people.
Australia’s Smart Traveller responded to the quake posting a warning on its Facebook page detailing the quake’s effects on the country.
The post stated:
On 19 September 2017 a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck in the state of Puebla, in the central eastern part of Mexico. Mexico City has been significantly affected as well as Puebla, State of Mexico, Morelos, and Guerrero.
People in the affected areas are experiencing severe communications disruption. The National Civil Protection Agency has advised that while infrastructure is being assessed all essential services (such as public transport) are suspended.
Preliminary information from local authorities’ requests people not to drive so that emergency services can conduct their activities. The President has evacuated all damaged hospitals and patients are being transferred to unaffected hospitals.
After a major earthquake, follow the advice of the local authorities and emergency services as aftershocks are common. Monitor the media for latest developments and follow the instructions issued by local and national authorities.
