Los Cabos Region Experiences Pair of Offshore Earthquakes

Share The Article

CABO SAN LUCAS, Baja California Sur – The earth made its presence known in the Los Cabos region this week, as a pair of notable earthquakes rumbled offshore. The first, a stronger magnitude 5.8, occurred on Tuesday evening, May 27th, followed by a magnitude 5.4 tremor in the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

Fortunately, initial assessments from Mexico’s National Seismological Service (Servicio Sismológico Nacional, SSN) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) indicate no immediate reports of damage or injuries stemming from either event. Nevertheless, the back-to-back quakes serve as a distinct reminder of the dynamic geological landscape beneath this popular coastal destination.

Wednesday’s Early Morning Jolt

The second of the seismic pairing arrived on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, around 1:30 AM local time in Los Cabos time. This magnitude 5.4 earthquake, as detailed by the SSN and echoed in national media reports, had its epicenter in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 379 kilometers (roughly 235 miles) south of Cabo San Lucas. Both the SSN and USGS placed its origin at a relatively shallow depth, between 5 and 10 kilometers (about 3 to 6 miles) beneath the seabed.

Given its considerable distance from the coastline, the perceptible impact of this particular quake on land in Los Cabos was minimal. Local civil protection authorities, who routinely monitor such seismic occurrences, had not issued any specific advisories for coastal communities by Wednesday morning. Importantly, the characteristics of this earthquake did not trigger any tsunami warnings.

Tuesday Night’s Preceding Tremor

Just a few hours prior, the region experienced a more potent tremor. A magnitude 5.8 earthquake was recorded on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at approximately 9:59 PM local Los Cabos time. The USGS pinpointed its epicenter about 388 kilometers (around 241 miles) southeast of Cabo San Lucas, also originating at a shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles).

Much like the subsequent tremor, there were no immediate official accounts of this earthquake being widely felt or causing any structural concerns or harm within the Los Cabos municipality, which encompasses both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The significant offshore distance likely mitigated any substantial shaking on land.

Understanding Our Active Earth

Baja California Sur, along with the wider Gulf of California, sits at a complex juncture of tectonic plates, most notably the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. Their constant interaction makes this a seismically vibrant area, prone to a spectrum of seismic events from minor, often unfelt tremors to more significant earthquakes like those recorded this week. The network of faults along the Gulf and off the peninsula’s Pacific shores is the engine behind this geological activity. While truly damaging earthquakes are infrequent in Los Cabos itself, the underlying geology underscores the value of awareness and preparation.

Staying Safe: A Few Key Reminders

We at The Los Cabos Sun have experienced earthquakes first hand over the years and a little preparation goes a long way! Here are some great tips to be prepared!

• Acknowledge the Setting: Living in or visiting a seismically active zone means understanding that earthquakes are a possibility.
• Have a Household Plan: Discuss and establish emergency plans with your family or household, including safe spots and communication strategies if separated.
• Assemble an Emergency Kit: A well-stocked kit is crucial. Include essentials like drinking water, non-perishable food items, a flashlight with extra batteries, a comprehensive first-aid kit, and any personal medications.
• Secure Your Surroundings: Take time to secure heavy objects within your home or business that could fall and pose a risk, such as tall furniture, mirrors, or overhead light fixtures.
• React Wisely During Shaking: If you are indoors when an earthquake hits, remember to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” Seek shelter under a sturdy piece of furniture like a desk or table, protect your head and neck, and remain in place until the shaking subsides. Keep clear of windows and exterior walls. If outdoors, move to an open area, away from buildings, utility lines, and trees.
• After the Shaking Stops: Exercise caution and be alert for potential aftershocks. Check for any injuries and assess your immediate surroundings for damage. Rely on official channels and local authorities for credible information and instructions.

While this week’s offshore seismic events passed without reported incident, they offer a practical prompt for all in Los Cabos—residents and visitors alike—to remain mindful of the natural environment and the enduring importance of being prepared. The National Seismological Service continues its vital work of monitoring seismic activity across Mexico, equipping communities with the information they need to stay safe and informed.