Massive earthquake strikes Mexico, leaves damage but takes no lives

March 21, 2012

On Tuesday, March 20, an earthquake shook southern Mexico and caused many to panic. The U.S. Geological Society measured the quake to have a 7.4 magnitude, which falls in the strongest magnitude range to occur more than once per year.

The Associated Press reports the quake hit hardest in the southern cities of Oaxaca and Guerrero, where 11 people were injured. As of early Wednesday morning, no deaths have been reported.[missing something] At least 800 homes were damaged and 60 collapsed entirely, but the destruction caused by the quake was minimal considering its immensity.

Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard told CNN this is the strongest earthquake to rock the nation's capital since an 8.0-magnitude quake claimed the lives of 10,000 people in 1985. There have been two quake-related injuries reported in Mexico City so far.

Those who want to make sure their families and friends are alright can use international phone cards to make calls to Mexico.

The earthquake's tremors were felt as far as 100 miles away from its epicenter, and many rushed from their office buildings and homes when the ground started moving. Mexico City authorities have already begun inspecting schools, hospitals and other public buildings for signs of damage.

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