Dozens dead as powerful earthquake hits central Mexico

The quake’s epicentre was seven kilometres west of Chiautla de Tapia, in the neighbouring state of Puebla. Authorities say at least 50 people died from the 7.1 magnitude earthquake and many remain trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake shook Mexico City on Tuesday, destroying buildings and causing an unknown number of casualties on the anniversary of a devastating 1985 quake.

Authorities said at least 50 were killed in the quake.

The count was just an initial toll, as emergency crews and hundreds of volunteers were digging through debris of collapsed buildings looking for survivors and bodies.

The quake sowed panic in the sprawling city of 20 million people, many of whom have memories of the quake 32 years ago that killed some 10,000 people.

TRT World spoke to journalist Alasdair Baverstock for the latest.

TV images showed a multi-story building in the capital with a middle floor collapsed as sirens blared from first responders rushing to the scene.

Other video showed the side of a government building sheering off and falling into the street as bystanders screamed.

In Cuernavaca, a city south of Mexico City, there were unconfirmed reports on local radio of people trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

Mexico’s Seismological Institute said the quake measured 6.8 on its scale, but later revised it to 7.1.

The institute said the quake’s epicentre was seven kilometres west of Chiautla de Tapia, in the neighbouring state of Puebla.

The preliminary toll from the authorities is certain to rise, as emergency crews and hundreds of volunteers dig through rubble in Mexico City, a megapolis of 20 million, looking for survivors and bodies. (AFP) (AFP)

Tuesday’s quake occurred hours after authorities had conducted an earthquake drill.

Local journalists captured images of collapsed buildings, a car crushed by rubble and debris-strewn streets.

City residents also posted photos online of damage to buildings in their neighbourhoods.

Emergency officials warned people not to smoke in the street, warning of possible ruptured gas pipes.

Source: TRTWorld and agencies