An earthquake measuring 2.4 on the Richter scale caused structural damage to 86 properties in the southern Jalisco municipality of Zapotlán El Grande Tuesday, June 21.
According to the National Seismological Service,the quake’s epicenter was one kilometer west of the city of Zapotlán El Grande (formerly Ciudad Guzmán). Jalisco Civil Protection officials determined that 19 of the properties were uninhabitable, forcing the occupants to evacuate their homes and seek refuge with family or friends, or in a municipal shelter.
Situated on a fault line, Zapotlán El Grande has suffered more from earthquakes throughout its history than any other area of Jalisco. The town was badly affected in the September 19, 1985, quake that devastated Mexico City. Although Guadalajara was spared any serious damage, 60 percent of the properties in Ciudad Guzman were affected and 32 people died.