Mexico city: An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 struck southern Mexico, causing the iconic Angel of Independence monument in the capital to sway. The seismic activity originated near the Pacific coast in Guerrero state, with its epicenter located 35 kilometers deep in the ocean. The earthquake struck before 8:00 AM local time and was felt in numerous central and southern states of Mexico.

According to Thai News Agency, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the details of the earthquake. The tremors resulted in at least 12 injuries, minor damage in Mexico City, and additional property damage and landslides in various regions. The Angel of Independence, a 45-meter-high structure commemorating the centennial of Mexico's independence, swayed noticeably during the earthquake. The monument is crowned with a golden statue of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory.

The earthquake's impact extended to Mexican President Claudia Shebaum, who had to cut short her first press conference of the new year on January 2nd. The event, held in Mexico City, was disrupted by the tremors, leading to an evacuation of journalists. Across the city, residents evacuated buildings, and hospitals took precautionary measures to move patients to safety. Tragically, two fatalities were reported: a woman in Guerrero state and a man in Mexico City, both victims of the earthquake's immediate effects.

Mexico's seismological service reported that by noon local time, 420 aftershocks had been recorded, with the strongest measuring 4.7 in magnitude.