Earthquake of 4.3 magnitude strikes Los Cabos region
Earthquake Strikes Baja California Sur: 4.8-Magnitude Quake Causes Minor Damage
A 4.8-magnitude earthquake hit the Baja California Peninsula on Monday, seven kilometers west of the area, according to the National Seismological Service (SSN). The epicenter was located 10 kilometers southeast of San JoseΜ del Cabo at a depth of 10 kilometers.
The earthquake was felt as a strong tremor on land, particularly in San Lucas. Witnesses reported hearing the sound of glass bottles breaking and windows moving. Security footage from grocery stores and shops showed a strong shock that caused products on the shelves to fall.
Minor damage was reported at the Los Cabos International Airport, including ceiling lamps and lights falling. However, according to the City Council's general secretary Alberto RenteriΜa Santana, there was no significant material damage or injuries from the earthquake.
The SSN initially reported the earthquake's magnitude as 4.3, but later adjusted it to 4.8. Residents have been advised to pay attention to official statements, avoid spreading rumors or unconfirmed information, and to inspect the conditions of their homes and structures, especially those with prior damage or poor construction.
Officials have warned that these types of events may generate aftershocks. It did not feel like an earthquake to most people in Los Cabos because the two events registered by the SSN were of very low magnitude (2.9 and 2.0), which are typically too weak to be widely felt by the population. Additionally, one was located 3 kilometers southwest of San JosΓ© del Cabo and the other 7 kilometers west, which likely reduced their perceptibility in populated areas.
In the days leading up to the earthquake, the SSN reported 44 earthquakes associated with the Baja California Peninsula's main geological faults between Aug. 3 and Sept. 2. No new facts were reported about the controversy surrounding the initial reported magnitude of the 4.3-magnitude earthquake.
The SSN did not report any earthquakes between the 4.3-magnitude earthquake on Monday and the 2.0-magnitude earthquake later on the same day. Between Aug. 3 and Sept. 2, the SSN reported 44 earthquakes associated with the Baja California Peninsula's main geological faults.
The Baja California Peninsula is a region prone to earthquakes, with the Guerrero Gap in the southwestern state of Guerrero considered the strip of greatest seismic risk in Mexico. People walking on the street claimed they didn't feel the earthquake, but were alerted by the earthquake alarm. Some locals accused the SSN of understating the earthquake's actual magnitude.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow official guidance to ensure their safety during these seismic events.
