Copyright Information: All images are in the public domain and available for free. If you use this image, credit NOAA/NGDC, Munchener Ruck, Reinsurance Company, Munich, Germany. |
Vibration caused failure of the subsoils and subsidence which resulted in the collapse of streets. This type of damage was particularly prevalent in Mexico City since much of the city is located on unconsolidated lake-bed sediments. These soft sedimentary clay deposits amplified the seismic waves and resulted in ground failure. Image Credit: Munchener Ruck. Reinsurance Company, Munich, Germany September 19, 1985 Mexico City Mexico earthquake The magnitude 8.1 earthquake occurred off the Pacific coast of Mexico. The damage was concentrated in a 25 square km area of Mexico City, 350 km from the epicenter. The underlying geology and geologic history of Mexico City contributed to this unusual concentration of damage at a distance from the epicenter. Of a population of 18 million, an estimated 10,000 people were killed, and 50,000 were injured. Event Data:
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