Triangle residents worry about families in Mexico earthquake

DURHAM, North Carolina (WTVD) -- Tuesday's magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Mexico City has sent aftershocks to the Triangle as many residents are concerned about friends and family.

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Wednesday, shoppers at a popular Durham Mexican grocery store, La Superior Carniceria, were aware of what happened and had one thing in mind - family. A store representative told ABC11 that store traffic Wednesday was much slower than usual because many shoppers were either at home watching coverage of the earthquake's aftermath or trying to get in touch with family members and friends.

Durham resident Jose Mendoza is originally from Mexico and has family in Mexico City.

"We all try to survive and help other people," Mendoza said. "If you got a chance to, help them. Just like what happened in Texas, people helped each other. That's what they do."

Tuesday's quake came 32 years to the day of the notorious 1985 quake that killed thousands. Mendoza made it through the 1985 quake and thinking about that fateful day brings back awful memories.

"I was in Mexico City and I feel the earthquakes and aftershocks," Mendoza recalled. "I know this feels bad, and this is scary - really. This time I'm a little nervous too."

The same can be said for shopper Rosario Carrasquillo.

"It really hits home because I'm originally from Mexico City," she said. "I lived in the city and even through the 1985 earthquake ... it really brings back memories of that time."

As soon as Carrasquillo learned of the earthquake, she contacted her family members. She is relying on Facebook and other social media to stay abreast of what's happening.

She said she is relieved to know her family is doing OK but is still making herself a resource to those who need it.

"Mainly, I think we're starting a support group and saying 'if you need any help, let us know', and we'll go from there," she said.

La Superior management said it expected store traffic to increase later this week as more shoppers get in touch with family and friends.

Shoppers will rely heavily on calling cards to contact friends and family, as well as Sigue and MoneyGram services to send money.