Houston man survives Harvey in Houston, earthquake in Mexico

MEXICO CITY, Mexico (KTRK) -- One of the most powerful earthquakes ever to strike Mexico has hit off its southern Pacific coast. When it happened, Spring native Scott McDonough, was in his apartment, 17 floors up, in Mexico City.

"These last couple weeks have been a little crazy," McDonough told Eyewitness News via a FaceTime interview.

He flew to Mexico City Monday, just as the water around his home started to recede. His home didn't flood, but like many of us, he helped friends and neighbors who lost everything.

"I was glad to be done with that, but now I've gotten an earthquake," McDonough said.

Just before midnight, an 8.1 magnitude earthquake shook Mexico. The epicenter, near the Guatemala border, is more than 600 miles from Mexico City, where McDonough was staying in his 17th floor apartment.

McDonough, who travels to Mexico City about once a month for business, says he felt the building sway for 40 to 60 seconds.

"It was strong and it lasted for a while too, so finally I had to find some place to shelter in the apartment because I wasn't sure what was going to happen, but it was pretty strong."

After the shaking stopped, McDonough said he ran down all 17 flights of stairs to safely leave the building. He waited outside about 30 minutes before getting the all clear.

"I've have felt other earthquakes and this one lasted longer and stronger than most I've ever felt. It kept going and when that's happening, the nervousness just kind of builds." McDonough said.

The U.S. Geological Survey says there have been at least 20 aftershocks. The death toll is climbing.

McDonough said he hasn't seen major damage around Mexico City. He's getting on a plane back to Houston tonight.

This morning, Governor Greg Abbott released this statement:

"Our hearts go out to the victims of this devastating tragedy and their families. Just as Mexico stood with Texas in our time of need, Texas will stand with Mexico and offer whatever aid and assistance we can to help them recover after this disaster. I ask all Texans to join Cecilia and me in praying for the victims and the people of Mexico this morning."

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