20 Sep 2017

Recap: Mexico quake kills more than 130

2:14 pm on 20 September 2017

Rescuers are searching frantically in the rubble of fallen buildings after Mexico's second huge earthquake in two weeks killed more than 130 people.

  • A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck on Tuesday afternoon (Wednesday morning NZT), toppling buildings in Mexico City and causing many deaths in surrounding states.
  • At least 138 people have died.
  • Officials said the highest death toll was in Morelos state, south of Mexico City, where 64 deaths were reported. At least 36 people were killed in Mexico City.
  • The capital's mayor said 44 buildings were severely damaged or destroyed.
  • Several major gas leaks and fires occurred.
  • Apartment blocks, a school, a factory and a supermarket were among the buildings that collapsed.
  • The quake occurred less than a fortnight after an 8.1 magnitude earthquake, on 7 September, killed at least 98 people.

Check our full story, listen to a New Zealander's eyewitness account, and follow the latest updates here.