Second Earthquake in Two Weeks Strikes Mexico
A 7.1 magnitude earthquake shook central Mexico September 19. Image courtesy of USGS National Earthquake Information Center.
Article Highlights
- A 7.1 magnitude earthquake shook central Mexico September 19.
- Reports put the death toll at more than 100 people.
- Mission presidents will keep families updated as they are able.
Related Links
For the second time in two weeks, a serious earthquake has struck Mexico.
According to MormonNewsroom.org: “Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are assessing damage from the 7.1 magnitude earthquake that shook central Mexico today, causing buildings to sway. Reports put the death toll at more than 100 people. The quake occurred on the anniversary of a 1985 quake that did major damage to Mexico City. Some buildings are reported collapsed with an unknown number of people trapped in the rubble, but the extent of injuries and damage is not immediately available. The epicenter of the quake was near the town of Raboso, about 76 miles southeast of Mexico City.”
Church spokesman Eric Hawkins released the following statement Tuesday afternoon:
We are heartbroken to see the destruction and suffering that is occurring as a result of another serious earthquake in Mexico. At this time, it's difficult to understand fully the impact, including to Church members and facilities. The missionary training center in Mexico was not damaged, and the missionaries there are safe. There are several missions in this region, and mission presidents are working to determine the status of all missionaries. Some have reported that all are safe, while others are still assessing the situation. This is complicated by damaged communications systems, large distances, and travel difficulties. Mission presidents will keep families updated as they are able, and we will provide additional details as we learn more. We pray for their safety and invite others to join us in our prayers for Mexico and its people.
Español
Nos entristece ver la destrucción y el sufrimiento que está ocurriendo como resultado de otro serio terremoto en México. En este momento, es difícil entender plenamente su impacto, incluso entre miembros de la Iglesia o en instalaciones. El Centro de Capacitación Misional en México no ha recibido daños y sus misioneros se encuentran a salvo. Hay varias misiones en esta región, y los presidentes de misión están trabajando para determinar el estado de todos los misioneros. Algunos han reportado que todos están seguros, mientras que otros todavía están evaluando la situación. Esto es complicado debido a daños en los sistemas de comunicación, grandes distancias y dificultad al viajar. Los presidentes de misión mantendrán a las familias informadas como les sea posible y proporcionaremos detalles adicionales a medida que estén disponibles. Oramos por su seguridad e invitamos a otros a unirse a nuestras oraciones por México y su gente.
