Mexico earthquake: 7.4 magnitude quake hits south of country

There is a tsunami risk along the country’s southern coast and for Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador

A large earthquake has rattled southwestern Mexico, rocking Oaxaca and reaching as far as Mexico City, according to the US Geological Survey.

The agency's preliminary reports measured a 7.4 magnitude quake, sending residents into the streets and exploding some power lines.

A tsunami threat was in place along the country's southern coast and for Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador.

Initial reports signalled a 7.7 magnitude quake at 11.30am eastern time on Mexico's southern Pacific coast at a depth of 16 miles (26 km).

Its epicentre was recorded 7 miles (12 km) south-southwest of Santa Maria Zapotitlan.

Following the quake, the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration reported "tsunami waves reaching one to three meters above the tide level" could be possible along Mexico's coastline.

Reports followed of streets and buildings shaking from the tremors moments before alarms in Mexico City warned residents.

Damage was reported from the southern beach resort Huatulco, near the earthquake's epicentre, to more central parts of the county, including some crumbled ceilings, downed power lines and broken windows.

The latest quake was more powerful than a 7.1 magnitude quake in 2017 that caused widespread damage in the state of Puebla as well as across Mexico City. At least 370 people were killed and thousands were injured in that quake.