7.3 Earthquake Off Mexico's Coast Triggers Tsunami Warning

A powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck off Mexico's Pacific coast Friday morning, triggering a tsunami warning and prompting evacuations in Guatemala.

The quake was centered about 71 kilometers west-southwest of Puerto Madero, in the Mexican state of Chiapas, at a depth of just 10 kilometers, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Shallow earthquakes like this one tend to cause more intense shaking and damage than deeper quakes of the same magnitude. The reading was initially recorded at 7.4 before being revised down to 7.3.

Mexico's tsunami warning center said hazardous waves are possible for coastlines within 300 kilometers of the epicenter, with sea levels potentially rising as much as 105 centimeters above normal tide levels. Officials urged residents to stay away from beaches until the warning is lifted, warning of strong currents at port entrances.

The shaking was felt as far away as Guatemala City and El Salvador. In Guatemala, staff were evacuated from government buildings and people rushed into the streets as security protocols were activated. At least five tremors, including a 6.1 magnitude aftershock, hit Chiapas within roughly an hour of the initial quake.

Despite the intensity of the shaking, early damage reports have been limited. Officials in Mexico City, Oaxaca and Tabasco reported no significant damage, though preventive evacuations of high-rise buildings took place in some coastal communities. Mexico's National Civil Protection agency said it was coordinating with state and municipal units to assess the impact in Chiapas.