Central Mexico earthquake kills more than 100, topples buildings

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Central Mexico earthquake kills more than 100, topples buildings

20/09/2017 12:31am

> From the WeatherWatch archives

Scores were killed in a powerful earthquake Tuesday that rocked Mexico City and surrounding states. The earthquake toppled buildings, sent rescue workers digging through rubble and knocked out power to millions.

At least 116 people died in the magnitude-7.1 earthquake, officials said. Most deaths were reported in Puebla, Morelos and Mexico states, and Mexico City, the capital.

The government said 3.8 million customers in central Mexico had their electricity service interrupted.

President Enrique PeÃ±a Nieto said 27 buildings collapsed in the capital, which is about 75 miles from the epicenter, CNN affiliate Foro TV reported.

The quake hit hours after many people took part in drills and commemorative events on the anniversary of a devastating earthquake that killed thousands in Mexico City, more than three decades ago. Residents realized Tuesday’s earthquake wasn’t a drill when rooms trembled.

Video showed rescue workers in hard hats and civilians in a Mexico City neighborhood combing through two-story high piles of rubble in search of survivors. Some carried away buckets full of debris.