Seismic activity was felt again in Mexico in recent days, with low to moderate magnitude earthquakes recorded by the National Seismological Service (SSN) in the south of the country. Official reports indicate tremors in Oaxaca and Chiapas, located mainly on the Isthmus and the coast, without significant impacts.
These episodes, although of magnitude around 4, remember that Mexico is located in one of the most active regions on the planet. The combination of tectonic plates makes Oaxaca and Chiapas are among the states with the highest seismic frequency, which is why authorities insist on keeping prevention up to date.
Recent earthquakes confirmed by the SSN
On Friday August 8th, 2025at 21:02h, an earthquake of magnitude 4.0 with epicenter a 8 km southeast of MatÃas Romero (Oaxaca). According to the SSN, the event originated at 110 km deep and was located at coordinates 16.827° latitude and -94.989° longitude.
One day later, on Saturday August 9th, 2025at 12:25h, the SSN reported another movement of magnitude 4.0 in the same isthmus area, this time at 7 km northwest of MatÃas Romero, with 113.8 km deep, latitude 16.92° and longitude -95.091°.
During the early morning of August 11th, 2025, the seismological network detected a sequence offshore Chiapas: at 03:04 an earthquake of 4.2 a 170 km southwest of Tonalá, followed by two events at 03:52 y 03:57both of magnitude 4.3, located at 163 y 166 km southwest of Tonalárespectively.
On Morning Report of August 13, 2025, the SSN reported an earthquake of 4.1 with epicenter at Union Hidalgo (Oaxaca) and another 4.2 en Huixtla (Chiapas). In addition, a was independently confirmed event of 4.3 in the environment of Tonalá (Chiapas), all of them without serious consequences for the population.
Why are there so many earthquakes in Mexico?
The explanation is eminently geological: Mexico is located on five plates that interact with each other: North America, Caribbean, Pacific, Riviera and CocosIn the south of the country, the Cocos Plate subducts under North America, a process that releases energy and causes most tremors.
This tectonic context makes entities such as Oaxaca and Chiapas in areas of high seismic activity, where intermediate and deep earthquakes are frequent. Therefore, citizen preparedness and building regulations are key to reducing risks. You can learn more in our article on differences between tremors, earthquakes and earthquakes.
Can earthquakes be predicted?
The scientific community confirms that it is not possible to predict with certainty when and where an earthquake will occur. However, there are monitoring and early warning systems that detect the initial waves and send alerts seconds before the movement is felt, allowing for a rapid response. To better understand how they work, see early warning systems for earthquakes.
Therefore, the active prevention and the culture of self-protection are essential: familiarizing yourself with local risks, participating in drills and following official recommendations.
Safety recommendations
Before an earthquake, prepare a family emergency plan including meeting points, evacuation routes and a basic kit with water, a flashlight, a radio, medication, and important documents. Identify safe areas within your home, such as under heavy furniture or next to load-bearing walls.
During an earthquake, stay calm, avoid windows, glass, and objects that could fall, and take cover under sturdy furniture if you're inside. If you're outside, stay away from facades, poles, and trees. In your vehicle, stop in a safe place and wait for the aftershock to pass. If you'd like to learn more, check out our recommendations for earthquake preparedness activities.
After the earthquake, check for possible gas, water, or electrical leaks before turning utilities back on, and avoid using open flames if you suspect a leak. Instead, use flashlights for illumination and follow official information to assess the situation.
Check out the channels of the SSN and Civil Protection for the latest assessments and possible evacuation or return instructions. In case of injuries, call emergency services and provide basic assistance without risking your safety.
Participates regularly in drills at home, work, or school to gain confidence in your answer and reduce uncertainty. Also, keep it handy emergency contacts and a family reunion plan.
With the recent tremors in Oaxaca and Chiapas Clearly defined by the SSN, the country reaffirms the importance of ongoing preparation. Citizen collaboration, preventive measures, and official information are the most effective tools for minimizing damage from future earthquakes.
