In the span of nearly 15 days, Mexico experienced two different natural disasters. On Sept. 19, the anniversary of two separate earthquakes, a powerful earthquake rattled the country. Then, on Oct. 3, Hurricane Orlene made landfall on the border of Nayarit and Sinaloa but quickly diminished to a tropical storm. 

EARTHQUAKE STRIKES

On Sept. 19, 1985, and Sept. 19, 2017, two major earthquakes rocked Mexico, devastating Mexico City, Puebla and surrounding areas. This year, on the anniversary of this natural disaster, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake centered near Colima and Michoacán border destroyed buildings and left a few areas without electricity. This was just one hour after the country practiced earthquake protocol. 

The earthquake was so powerful that it was felt in Mexico City, nearly 460 miles away from the epicenter in Colima and Michoacán. The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center also warned the coast of Mexico of a potential tsunami due to the strength of the earthquake. 

Residents of Mexico believe the day to be cursed, but experts deny these claims. 

“This is a coincidence,” said U.S. Geological Survey seismologist Paul Earle. “There’s no physical reason or statistical bias toward earthquakes in any given month in Mexico.”

HURRICANE SHIFTS

Hurricane Orlene made landfall on the border of Nayarit and Sinaloa on Oct. 3. The hurricane began as a Category 4 hurricane but quickly lessened to a tropical storm. Though the hurricane was less powerful than expected, schools canceled classes for those on the coast and authorities closed ports and established aid shelters. 

Mexico expects heavy rain and winds, potentially bringing damage to properties. The risk of flooding may prompt dangerous mudslides. Though the hurricane was expected to reach the U.S., now it is less likely.