M 3.9 - 98 km SW of Brisas Barra de Suchiate, Mexico
(98 km SW of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
3.9MB
Minor Seismic Class
10.0km
Crustal Layer
13.904° N, 92.867° W
GPS Coordinates
11 tons
TNT Equivalent Power
US
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 3.9 event is classified as a minor earthquake. Often felt by people indoors, especially on upper floors. Hanging objects may swing slightly; structural damage is extremely rare.
Estimated Shaking Radius
~25–50 km
Potential Damage Zone
None
Focal Depth Effect
High Surface Energy
What Does Magnitude 3.9 Mean?
Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:
Logarithmic Energy Multiplier
Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:
10× Ground Motion Amplitude
The seismograph wave amplitude jumps by tenfold for every 1.0 magnitude step.
~31.6× Radiated Kinetic Energy
Total energy release increases exponentially (101.5 ≈ 31.62 times per magnitude unit).
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
Southern and central Mexico lies directly above the Middle America Trench, where the oceanic Cocos and Rivera plates subduct beneath the North American Plate. This active subduction margin produces frequent intermediate and megathrust seismic events.
Originating at a depth of 10.0 km (Earth's Crust (0–70 km)), this rupture occurred occurred within the brittle upper crust. shallow earthquakes produce the highest peak ground acceleration and the sharpest surface shaking.
Earthquake Safety Action Plan
- •Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Take cover beneath a sturdy table or desk.
- •Stay indoors away from exterior glass windows and heavy unanchored fixtures.
- •If outdoors, move into an open area away from power lines and building facades.
- •Inspect utilities for damaged gas lines, water leaks, or electrical hazards.
- •Expect Aftershocks: Secondary tremors frequently strike after moderate and strong events.
- •Avoid damaged structures and listen to official emergency broadcasts.
- •Maintain a 72-hour emergency go-bag with water, non-perishable food, and first aid.
- •Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to structural wall studs.
- •Establish a family emergency communication protocol and meeting point.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
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