An earthquake hits the southern coast of Mexico today: what to know

An earthquake measuring 4.7 on the Richter scale struck early Wednesday off the southern coast of Mexico, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries, according to preliminary information issued by earthquake authorities.

The map shows the location of the earthquake off the southern coast of Mexico

Where was the epicenter of the earthquake?

The 4.7-magnitude quake was centered about 50 miles southwest of La Esperanza in El Zapotal, Mexico, according to preliminary data from seismic monitors. The offshore location placed the epicenter under the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Southern Mexico lies along one of the most active seismic zones in the world, where the Cocos Plate is steadily subducting beneath the North American Plate. This collision triggers frequent earthquakes along the Central American Trench, an offshore fault system that runs parallel to the Pacific coast. The region routinely experiences moderate to strong earthquakes with pressure building and releasing along this boundary. States such as Oaxaca, Chiapas and Guerrero – including areas near El Zapotal – are particularly vulnerable to seismic activity due to this ongoing tectonic interaction.

What is the epicenter?

The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface that is directly above where the earthquake begins deep within the Earth. This underground starting point is known as the center of light or focus. As earthquake energy radiates outward from the focus, the epicenter is often used to describe the location of the strongest shaking felt at the surface.

What causes an earthquake?

Most earthquakes are caused by the sudden movement of tectonic plates, which are huge slabs of the Earth's crust that are constantly moving against each other. Stress builds up along faults where plates meet until it is released in a wave of energy, creating seismic waves that shake the ground. Other less common causes include volcanic activity, human-induced mining or drilling, and large landslides.

Updates: 12/3/25, 11:50 a.m.: This article has been updated with new information.

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