A magnitude 5.5 earthquake hit Mexico’s southern state of Oaxaca on Friday evening, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and Mexican authorities said. The temblor, located in the vicinity of the town of San Miguel Achiutla about 64 kilometers below ground, quickly generated a brief panic throughout the region.
There were no major damages reported but the quake set off Mexico City’s seismic alert, getting residents to vacate buildings briefly. Videos posted online showed people running for cover as sirens sounded throughout the capital.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had told citizens in a statement on X as authorities are yet to report large-scale destruction. In the meantime, the governor of Oaxaca said emergency response crews issue activated to evaluate the situation. 
Earthquakes are very frequent in Mexico, which is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for numerous earthquake and volcanic activity. Residents stay on high alert as officials keep an eye on aftershocks.
This new earthquake is a reminder that only in Mexico there is a constant and very real risk of earthquakes, and that puts into play once again debates about emergency preparedness and code enforcement. The authorities recommend the public to stay alert and observe safety procedures in case of more tremors.
