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18 Apr 2024 | 04:15 PM UTC

Mexico: Magnitude-5.6 aftershock occurs in the Gulf of California at around 08:12 April 18 /update 1

A magnitude-5.6 aftershock occurs in the Gulf of California, Mexico, at around 08:12 April 18. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.

Warning

A magnitude-5.6 aftershock occurred in the Gulf of California at around 08:12 April 18. The epicenter was about 87 km (54 miles) east-northeast of Loreto. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of southern Sonora, central Baja California Sur, southwestern Chihuahua, and northern Sinaloa states. The aftershock followed a magnitude-5.3 earthquake that occurred in the Gulf of California at around 00:39 the same day. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.