Image: AFP
At least 100 hundred people have been killed after a powerful earthquake struck central Mexico on Tuesday.
According to reports millions of terrified residents in Mexico City and surrounding areas were forced to flee their homes and streets after dozens of buildings fell during the 7.1 magnitude earthquake which rocked the centre of the country earlier this evening.
It is understood a major rescue operation is underway as there are survivors buried under rubble.
The devastating earthquake ironically struck as many people took part in an earthquake drill to mark the anniversary of a similar earthquake which took place 32 years ago.
Initial reports have suggested that at least 54 people were killed in Morelos state which is located south of the capital, whilst 26 people have been reportedly killed in Puebla state.
A further 30 are confirmed dead in Mexico City with another 9 in Mexico State.
State officials have warned that the death toll could rise even further.