M 7.6 - Colima-Michoacan border region, Mexico

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In summary, a strong 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit the Pacific coastline in Michoacan State in Mexico on September 19, 2022. The earthquake was relatively shallow at 15.1 km depth, causing significant damage to structures in the area. There was also a 6.8 aftershock a couple of hours later, with the same focal mechanism as the mainshock. Thankfully, the epicenter was in a sparsely populated region, but there were still some injuries and at least one death reported. Tsunami warnings were issued and some buildings in Mexico City were closed due to concerns of collapse.
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Astronuc
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Wow that's strong, and shallow. Thankfully not in the middle of a metropolitan area. Still some injuries and at least one death, which are not good...

(CNN)

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake off the southwestern coast of Mexico in Michoacan state on Monday has prompted tsunami warnings and caused at least one death, according to Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

The powerful earthquake's epicenter occurred in a sparsely populated region of Michoacan state, very near the coastline. In nearby Colima, around 100km from epicenter, very strong shaking capable of "moderate" damage was reported, per USGS data.

In Mexico City, roughly 500 km away, "light to moderate" shaking was reported, which is capable of "very light" damage, especially to vulnerable structures. There are no known casualties or damage yet recorded in Mexico City, according to the city's mayor, Claudia Sheinbaum.

Local news channels reported that firefighters closed some buildings in Mexico City to the public due to concerns of collapse.
https://www.cnn.com/2022/09/19/amer...s-major-quake-in-mexico-intl-latam/index.html
 
  • #3
Astronuc said:
Strong earthquake his the Pacific coastline in Michoacan State in Mexico.

and a 6.8 aftershock a couple of hours ago of me writing this

M 6.8 - Michoacan, Mexico​

  • 2022-09-22 06:16:09 (UTC)
  • 18.308°N 102.923°W
  • 24.1 km depth
it has the same focal mechanism as the 7.6 mainshock ... thrust faulting

1663837487409.png
 

FAQ: M 7.6 - Colima-Michoacan border region, Mexico

What caused the M 7.6 earthquake in the Colima-Michoacan border region of Mexico?

The M 7.6 earthquake in the Colima-Michoacan border region of Mexico was caused by the sudden release of built-up energy along a fault line. This type of earthquake is known as a strike-slip earthquake, where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

How large was the M 7.6 earthquake and what was its impact?

The M 7.6 earthquake had a magnitude of 7.6 on the Richter scale, making it a major earthquake. It caused significant damage in the Colima-Michoacan border region, including collapsed buildings and infrastructure damage. There were also reports of landslides and liquefaction in some areas.

Was there any warning before the M 7.6 earthquake occurred?

Unfortunately, there was no warning before the M 7.6 earthquake occurred. Earthquakes cannot be predicted with certainty, so it is important for communities to have emergency preparedness plans in place to minimize damage and loss of life.

Are aftershocks expected after the M 7.6 earthquake?

Yes, aftershocks are expected after a major earthquake like the M 7.6 in the Colima-Michoacan border region. These are smaller earthquakes that occur in the same area as the main shock and can continue for days, weeks, or even months after the initial earthquake. It is important for people to stay alert and be prepared for potential aftershocks.

How can scientists use data from the M 7.6 earthquake to better understand earthquakes in this region?

Scientists can use data from the M 7.6 earthquake, such as the location, magnitude, and depth, to better understand the tectonic activity and potential for future earthquakes in the Colima-Michoacan border region. They can also analyze seismic waves and ground motion to improve earthquake prediction and hazard assessment in the area.

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