EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES

MONTEZUMA CITY
Contact: Sarah Smith 52 55 2463 7379 SSmith@EmbassyMontezuma.gov FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 31, 2013

The Embassys Response to the Earthquake in Guerrero

U.S. Embassy Montezuma City asserts its commitment to aiding the federal and local governments of Montezuma in forming and implementing response and recovery procedure.

At approximately 9:25 on the morning of October 31, 2013, the Embassy of the United States in Montezuma City received reports of a large-scale earthquake that took place in the state of Guerrero. These reports were made available to the Embassy by the U.S. Consular Agency in Ulcopaca, an extension of the Embassy in Montezuma City, as well as via social media emanating from the area. It has been confirmed that an 8.0 magnitude earthquake has hit the state of Guerrero, significantly impacting the city of Ulcopaca, at 9:13 local time this morning. The quakes epicenter is reported to be approximately 10 miles inland and much of the surrounding area is facing drastic infrastructural damage. Local authorities are placing the casualties at around 3,000, with many more seeking medical attention, based on their statement earlier this morning. The area and the Pacific coastline are both being rigorously monitored by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Servicio Sismolgico Nacional to evaluate the possibility of aftershocks and tsunamic activity. Montezuman President Nieto held an emergency press conference at 11 this morning local time, stating that the city of Ulcopaca and the state of Guerreo have been placed under a state of emergency. Transportation to and from Ulcopaca is being reserved for rapid response teams as well as humanitarian aid and relief operations. President Nieto ensured the nation that the government will do its duty to implement the countrys Federal Plan for Preparedness and Response to a Large-Scale Earthquake or Tsunami in Montezuma (Earthquake Plan) to return the country to a state of safety and prosperity. The Embassy has received word that President Obama spoke with President Nieto by phone earlier this morning and will be in conference with the newly-assembled Joint Task Force on Montezuma and Ambassador Tony Wayne. He is expected to make a statement from the White House on the events in

EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES MONTEZUMA CITY Ulcopaca at approximately 5:45 EST. Secretary of State John Kerry provided a brief statement while speaking at an event early this afternoon, saying that information is being gathered about this natural disaster, the issues that it poses, and its effect on the people of Montezuma. The United States is offering any necessary assistance to aid Montezumas response and recovery. Our prayers are with all affected by this catastrophic event. At this time, we would like to make it clear that the all branches of the U.S. Mission to Montezuma, including the Embassy in Montezuma City as well as all 9 U.S. Consulates and 11 Consular Agencies, including the Consular Agency in Ulcopaca (an extension of the U.S. Embassy in Montezuma City), retain a fully operational status. The Consular Agency in Ulcopaca did not face significant structural damage and its staff is doing all in their power to assist with the response and to provide resources for the American citizens residing or traveling in the area. Embassy Spokesperson Nicole Burnett will deliver an official statement at approximately 2:45 this afternoon to elaborate on the Embassys disaster procedure and how it will be applied to the context of this earthquake. She will clarify the Embassys capabilities and responsibilities in implementing a response and recovery plan, explain the resources that are available to American citizens, and directly address the concerns of citizens, businesses, organizations, and media affected by this event. It is the paramount responsibility of the Embassy in Montezuma City and the government of the United States to ensure the security and safeguard the interests of all Americans at home and abroad. The Embassy is currently analyzing updates on the ground and is committed to working with local, state, and federal authorities from both the United States and Montezuma to understand current conditions and make recommendations accordingly. This press release will be followed shortly by a list of resources available to American citizens seeking information and guidance, medical attention, and supplies. Please tune in for Ms. Burnetts statement for further information, streaming live on our website at montezuma.usembassy.gov.