The Servicio Sismológico Nacional recorded a 4.2-magnitude earthquake early Thursday, May 14, with an epicenter 346 kilometers west of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco.
The quake was logged at 3:17 a.m. Central Mexico time. It had a reported depth of 10 kilometers, placing it in the Pacific rather than near the city’s neighborhoods, hotels, or marina areas.
A second Jalisco-area movement was also recorded later in the morning. That quake had a magnitude of 3.9 and was located 298 kilometers southwest of Puerto Vallarta, also at a depth of 10 kilometers.
There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries tied to the offshore Jalisco quake. Still, coastal seismic reports often get attention in Puerto Vallarta because the city sits in a region where residents are used to watching both earthquake and coastal-risk updates.
More seismic activity reported across Mexico
The Jalisco movements were part of a broader morning of seismic activity in Mexico.
Reports also listed earthquakes in Chiapas, Oaxaca, Guerrero, Colima, and Baja California Sur. Many were small to moderate events, with several centered in southern Mexico, where seismic activity is common.
In western Mexico, Colima also recorded movement near Manzanillo and Tecomán. That placed the Jalisco activity within a wider pattern along Mexico’s Pacific side rather than as an isolated report.
For Puerto Vallarta residents, the main local detail is the distance. The strongest Jalisco event was recorded far offshore, not under the city. That distance eliminated local perception.
What residents should know after a small offshore quake
Small and moderate earthquakes are common in Mexico. Many are recorded by instruments but are not felt by most people.
Even so, the reports are a useful reminder to keep basic plans up to date. Residents should know the safest place in their home, review exits, and keep emergency contacts easy to find.
For people living in condos, rental buildings, or hotels, it also helps to know the building’s evacuation route. Elevators should not be used during an earthquake.
After any noticeable shaking, residents should check for gas leaks, damaged walls, and fallen objects. Phones should be kept available for emergencies, and information should come from official channels.
Puerto Vallarta recently participated in an earthquake and tsunami drill, reflecting the city’s coastal setting. Most offshore quakes do not create a tsunami risk, but preparedness remains part of living along the Pacific.
