Mexico: Disruptions continue Sep. 20 following earthquake /update 5

Event

The death toll from the 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck central Mexico on Tuesday, September 19, has risen to 248 as of 01:00 (local time) on Wednesday, September 20. The death toll is expected to rise further in coming days as emergency workers and volunteers continue to search through the rubble of collapsed buildings; more than 44 buildings in Mexico City alone have collapsed. Among the regions most severely affected by the earthquake are state Morelos state (at least 72 people dead), Mexico City (at least 117 dead), Puebla state (at least 43 dead), Estado de México (at least 12 dead), and Guerrero state (at least three dead).

Some 3.8 million households continue to be without power across central Mexico, including 2 million in the capital, as of the early Tuesday. Phone lines remain down and authorities have requested that residents in Mexico City do not smoke outside due to the risk of gas leaks from ruptured mains. A state of disaster has been declared by the federal government. Significant transportation disruptions and infrastructure issues (power outages, water cuts, etc.) are to be anticipated in affected areas.

Officials from the Mexico City International Airport (MEX) announced that operations had resumed at 16:00 on Tuesday, after flights were suspended for several hours after the earthquake to check for damages (none detected). Residual flight delays and cancelations are expected throughout Wednesday.

Aftershocks are to be anticipated and could result in further damage.

Context

The earthquake - the deadliest to strike the country since 1985 - hit at approximately 13:14 on Tuesday. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter of the earthquake was located 4.5 km (2.8 mi) northeast of the town of Raboso at a depth of 51 km (32 mi). An earthquake drill was being held in Mexico City on September 19; it is thought that residents may have believed earthquake alarms were part of the drill.

The tremor is also thought to have triggered an eruption of the Popocatépetl volcano in Puebla state.

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.

After an earthquake, check for injuries and take note of your surroundings. If indoors, shut off the water, gas, and electricity lines, and evacuate the area. Aftershocks often follow an earthquake and can lead to further damages and loss of life. Individuals already present in areas affected by the earthquake are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities. Only use your telephone in case of urgency so as to leave communication lines open for emergency services.