5.8 earthquake off coast of Jalisco; No damage reported

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – A 5.8-magnitude earthquake off the Jalisco coast on May 27, 2025, was not felt in the city, with no damage reported by civil protection authorities.

On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 3:59 p.m., a 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Jalisco, located approximately 359.7 km west of La Cruz de Loreto, Jalisco, at a shallow depth of 10 km. Civil Protection authorities confirmed that the tremor did not register on seismographs in Puerto Vallarta and that, to date, there are no reports of damage or impact on infrastructure or communities, according to the Jalisco State Civil Protection and Fire Department.

Although this event passed largely unnoticed by residents of Puerto Vallarta, it underscores the region’s constant exposure to seismic activity. The quake was detected by the Jalisco Seismic Network (RESAJ), a telemetric array that includes 26 telemetered and 2 autonomous stations across the state. RESAJ continuously monitors ground motion to provide timely alerts to authorities and the public arXiv.

Puerto Vallarta sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a 25,000-mile-long tectonic belt where about 90% of the world’s earthquakes—and most of its volcanic eruptions—occur Wikipedia. This zone marks the boundary of several major lithospheric plates, including the Cocos, Pacific, Rivera, and North American plates, whose interactions generate frequent tremors along Mexico’s western coast.

What Happened

• Time & Date: 3:59 p.m., Tuesday, May 27, 2025
• Location: 359.7 km west of La Cruz de Loreto, Jalisco
• Magnitude & Depth: 5.8; 10 km beneath the seabed
• Impact on Puerto Vallarta: Not felt; no damage or injuries reported

Civil Protection teams, together with local firefighters, scanned the coastline and inspected public buildings, reporting clear streets and intact structures. “Our officers checked key sites—hospitals, schools, and bridges—and found no cracks or fallen debris,” said a departmental spokesperson.

Why It Matters

Even moderate quakes can pose risks if they occur closer to shore or at greater magnitudes. While today’s event passed without consequence, the history of the Jalisco region includes significant tremors:

• 1932: A series of powerful earthquakes, culminating in an 8.1 magnitude mainshock, claimed hundreds of lives and generated destructive tsunamis.
• 2003: A 7.6 magnitude quake near the same interface caused dozens of fatalities and widespread damage.

These precedents remind locals and visitors to stay prepared and respect seismic warnings.

Earthquake Safety Tips

1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
   • Drop to your hands and knees.
   • Cover your head and neck under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall.
   • Hold on until the shaking stops.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit
   • Include water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, and copies of important documents.
   • Store kits in easily accessible locations at home, work, and in your car.
3. Secure Your Space
   • Bolt bookcases, cabinets, and heavy appliances to walls.
   • Place heavy items on lower shelves.
   • Use latches on cupboards to prevent contents from spilling.
4. Plan and Practice
   • Identify safe spots in each room (sturdy furniture, interior walls).
   • Establish a family meeting point outside the building.
   • Conduct regular drills at home, school, and workplace.
5. Aftershocks and Secondary Hazards
   • Remain cautious: aftershocks can follow within hours or days.
   • Check gas lines, electrical wiring, and water mains for leaks or damage.
   • If you detect a gas smell, evacuate immediately and notify authorities.

Staying Informed

• Civil Protection Alerts: Sign up for SMS and app notifications from the Jalisco State Civil Protection agency.
• Seismic Websites: Bookmark the National Seismological Service (SSN) at ssn.unam.mx and RESAJ’s portal for real-time data.
• Local Media: Follow trusted outlets like Vallarta Daily News for official statements and guidance.

Looking Ahead

While this quake passed without incident in Puerto Vallarta, the possibility of larger, more impactful events remains. Authorities encourage citizens and businesses to review building codes, reinforce older structures, and integrate earthquake resilience into urban planning. By combining vigilant monitoring, robust infrastructure, and public preparedness, the community can minimize risk and protect lives when the next tremor comes.