Mexico tops list of countries most affected by earthquakes in 2024
2024 was marked by an alarming number of earthquakes worldwide. A visual report from World Visualised ranks the top seven countries most affected, with Mexico leading the list with an astonishing 1,971 earthquakes recorded throughout the year.
Following closely behind Mexico, Indonesia experienced 1,872 earthquakes, while Japan, known for its tectonic volatility, recorded 1,563. The Philippines and Chile featured prominently with 997 and 875 earthquakes, respectively.
Guatemala and Taiwan round out the list with 704 and 665 recorded quakes, each grappling with its own challenges of infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness.
The chart highlights how natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, continue to pose significant risks to nations located along major tectonic fault lines such as the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Experts warn that with urban populations growing and climate conditions shifting, the socioeconomic impacts of seismic events could intensify unless substantial mitigation measures are adopted.
While the raw number of earthquakes doesn't reflect magnitude or destruction, such frequency is an urgent call for strengthening early warning systems, investing in earthquake-resistant infrastructure, and expanding public safety education in vulnerable regions.
The second quarter of 2025 has just begun, but as of April 23, 2025, several significant earthquakes have occurred globally, resulting in varying degrees of damage and casualties.
Earthquakes in 2025 so far:
Tibet/Nepal Border – January 7
Magnitude: 7.1
A powerful earthquake struck Tibet's holy city of Shigatse, resulting in at least 95 deaths and 130 injuries. The earthquake affected the high-altitude region of western China, Nepal, and parts of India. It caused significant damage to 1,000 houses and led to the closure of the Mount Qomolangma (Everest) Scenic Area.
Myanmar – March 28
Magnitude: 7.7
This earthquake devastated central Myanmar, particularly Mandalay. The death toll has risen to 1,644, with over 2,200 injured and 200 people still missing. Infrastructure damage, including roads, bridges, and communication systems, has hindered rescue and relief operations. International aid has been mobilised, with countries like China, Russia, India, and Malaysia assisting. The UN has allocated $5 million for immediate relief.
Istanbul, Turkey – April 23
Magnitude: 6.2
Impact: A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul, Turkey, causing over 150 injuries but no immediate reports of severe damage. The quake, centred in the Sea of Marmara about 40 km southwest of Istanbul, had a shallow depth of 10 km and was followed by over 50 aftershocks.
