22 Sep 2022 | 07:30 AM UTC
Mexico: 6.8-magnitude earthquake strikes Michoacan State Sept. 22 /update 1
6.8-magnitude earthquake strikes Michoacan State, Mexico 01:16 Sept. 22. Disruptions ongoing following earlier major earthquake.
Event
A magnitude-6.8 earthquake occurred in southwestern Michoacan State at around 01:16 Sept. 22. The epicenter was about 46 km (29 miles) south-southwest of Aguililla. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 24 km (15 miles), and strong to very strong shaking was probably felt near the epicenter in southern Michoacan State, as well as moderate to light shaking across the rest of Michoacan, Colima, Jalisco, and western Guerrero states.
The earthquake is likely an aftershock of a magnitude-7.6 earthquake that struck the area around 13:05 Sept. 19. At least two fatalities in Manzanillo City, Colima State were reported following this quake, along with damages to more than 3,000 buildings in Michoacan and more than 2,000 buildings in Colima states. Around 1.2 million customers were left without power following the quake; however, most of the power supply has since been restored. The aftershock could cause damage to buildings near the epicenter, especially to those where structural integrity has already been weakened by the initial quake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Further moderate to strong aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The latest 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.
Advice
Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.
