FIELD SURVEY OF MEXICAN TSUNAMI PRODUCES NEW DATA, UNUSUAL PHOTOS

On October 9, 1995, an earthquake of Mw = 8.0 shook the Pacific coast of central Mexico. Centered offshore of the states of Jalisco and Colima, the earthquake caused extensive damage near Manzanillo and was felt strongly in Mexico City. Approximately 40 people were killed and about 100 injured, and many hotels and tall buildings were destroyed or severely damaged. The earthquake also set off a moderate tsunami that affected approximately 200 km of coastline and sent tsunami run-up ranging from 1 to 5 m from north of Playa de Cuyatlan to south of Tenacatita Bay. In regions with steep onshore topography, the damage was minor, but along the shallowest beaches, the damage was severe.