Mexico: Post-earthquake situational update /update 7

Event

Search and rescue efforts continue as of Thursday, September 21, two days after a powerful earthquake struck the capital Mexico City and the south-central states of Morelos, Puebla, Oaxaca, and Guerrero. Its epicenter was located near the town of Raboso (Puebla state), 150 km (90 mi) southeast of the capital. The official death toll from the 7.1-magnitude earthquake stands at 237 as of early Thursday but will likely rise as emergency workers and volunteers continue to search through the rubble of hundreds of collapsed buildings (dozens in Mexico City).

Authorities continue to ask people to remain in their homes to keep the roads clear for emergency services and rescue operations. Schools in the city will remain closed until further notice.

Mass power outages occurred following the earthquake, leaving nearly 5 million homes without power at one point. According to the national electricity company CFE, power has been restored to approximately 95 percent of affected areas as of early Thursday. Telecommunication issues are also possible. Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is operational.

A number of aftershocks have been recorded and more, with the potential to result in further damage, are to be anticipated in the coming hours and days.

Context

The capital region is extremely vulnerable to earthquakes. Mexico City is equipped with a sophisticated earthquake alert system, with sirens that can sound up to a minute ahead of shaking.

The earthquake - the deadliest to strike the country since 1985 - hit at approximately 13:14 (local time) on Tuesday. A state of emergency has been declared for affected areas and a three-day state of mourning was declared on September 20.

Advice

All those present in the region are advised to avoid impacted areas, to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities, and to confirm travel reservations. In an emergency situation, dial 911.

If an earthquake siren goes off, evacuate buildings immediately (using stairs, never elevators) and move away from buildings and other tall structures. Do not attempt to evacuate once shaking has begun; instead, take shelter under a table or crouched in a corner (away from exterior walls) and protect your head with your arms. If driving, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, away from buildings and other tall structures. If caught under debris following an earthquake, keep all movements to a minimum and cover your mouth to avoid inhaling dust; tap on wall or pipe or whistle to attract the attention of emergency services.

After a major earthquake, check buildings for damage, including downed power lines or damaged gas lines, and evacuate until the building is declared safe. Only use your telephone in case of urgency so as to leave communication lines open for emergency services.