Only One Person Killed in Mexico Quake

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INTERNATIONAL: The state governor of Mexico’s Guerrero, says Tuesday’s 7-magnitude quake, that hit just north of the resort city of Acapulco, killed only one person. They were crushed by a falling post during the quake, which lasted a full minute. 150 aftershocks were reported in the hours that followed. There’s been significant damage to property. The Federal Electricity Commission says 1.6-million customers have lost power. It’s believed the death toll was so low because 99% of the area’s earthquake alarm system loudspeakers did their job. The alarm sent millions of residents out onto the streets. The quake came on the fourth anniversary of an 8.2-magnitude that ravaged southern Mexico, claiming the lives of over 100 people.

Prison Fire Claims 41 Lives in Indonesia

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An Indonesian government minister says a massive prison fire might have been caused by an electric fault. It broke out while inmates were sleeping and quickly swept through the overcrowded Tangerang Prison block, outside Jakarta. At least 41 inmates have been killed, including two foreign nationals, a South African and a Portuguese, both serving drug sentences. The prison houses more than 2,000 inmates, far exceeding its 600 capacity. One block built for 38 inmates was reportedly housing 122. Human Rights organisations in the country say the criminal justice system, including significantly overcrowded prisons, need urgent reform.

Gas Explosion Hits Russian Apartment Block

^{Photo: STILLS AND VIDEO OF AFTERMATH OF GAS BLAST IN APARTMENT BUILDING IN MOSCOW REGION}

And, a gas explosion at an apartment block near Moscow has claimed the lives of two people. Big holes in the outer walls of the building in Noginsk, 50 kilometers east of Moscow, show the power of the blast. Two among the five people injured are children. They were injured as walls collapsed throughout three of the building's floors. Five of the building's 73 apartments have been badly damaged. 173 residents have been evacuated.