7.4-magnitude earthquake in Mexico leaves at least one dead

A 7.4-magnitude earthquake near the southern Mexico resort of Huatulco appeared to have killed at least one person Tuesday morning — and created tremors that could be felt for miles, according to local reports and shocking video.

The quake occurred around 10:30 a.m. local time, along the country’s southern Pacific coast at a depth of 16 miles. The epicenter was 7 miles south-southwest of Santa Maria Zapotitlan in Oaxaca state, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Tremors were reported throughout south and central Mexico and even in Guatemala.

Some 2 million people felt strong or moderate shaking and another 49 million felt weak or light shaking, according to the USGS.

Oaxaca state Gov. Alejandro Murat said that preliminary information indicates one person was killed and another injured in a building collapse in Crucecita, part of Huatulco, according to the Televisa network.

Otherwise, other reported damage was minor, he said.

Videos show buildings shaking and swaying, and debris flying, as the earthquake occurred.

A tsunami threat was issued by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, predicting waves 3 to 10 feet above tide levels along parts of the coasts of Mexico.

Central America, Peru and Ecuador were expected to see smaller waves.

Beaches had only just reopened last week in Huatulco, one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations, according to the Guardian.

Mari González of the Princess Mayev hotel in Huatulco told the Associated Press the quake was “strong, very strong” and that guests and staff were still standing outside 45 minutes after the initial quake as aftershocks continued.

Local media reported damage to some buildings in the state capital, Oaxaca city. State officials said they were assessing the situation.

With Post wires