A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck near Oaxaca, Mexico, on August 2, 2025, at 11:58 AM local time. The epicenter was located approximately 70 kilometers east-northeast of Oaxaca City, with a depth of 57 kilometers. The tremor was felt by an estimated 10 million people across the region, with varying intensities reported.
In Oaxaca City, the earthquake caused minor damage, including the fall of building facades. A 15-year-old individual sustained injuries from falling debris in the historic center. Emergency protocols were promptly activated, and authorities conducted verification tours to assess the situation and ensure public safety. The Mexican Seismic Alert System (SASMEX) did not issue an early warning due to the proximity of the epicenter to the city, which did not allow sufficient time for activation. This incident highlights the challenges faced by seismic alert systems in providing timely warnings during events with epicenters close to urban areas.
Seismic activity is common in the region, and the local population is generally prepared for such events. The response to this earthquake underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and effective emergency management strategies to mitigate potential risks associated with seismic events.