Mexico practices earthquake preparedness with national drill
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On Saturday, people across Mexico participated in the Second National Earthquake Drill, a practice designed to prepare citizens for potential seismic events.
The drill occurred 9 years after a major earthquake struck on September 19, 2017, and 41 years after another devastating earthquake in 1985. As part of the exercise, the presidential alert system sent a message to mobile phones, and the city’s seismic alert speakers activated to signal people to evacuate buildings.
Authorities in Mexico City reported that 98 percent of the seismic alert speakers functioned during the drill, totaling 27,984 devices. Approximately 7.8 million people took part, reacting with an average response time of one minute and 43 seconds. President Claudia Sheinbaum thanked participants and emphasized the importance of prevention and preparedness as a source of strength for families and communities.
This year’s drill included five different earthquake scenarios simulating events in regions across the country, including Puebla, Baja California, Nuevo León, Quintana Roo, and Chiapas, with magnitudes ranging from 5.2 to 7.7. Officials explained the scenarios were designed to reflect realistic possibilities, especially in Mexico City where soft soil can amplify seismic waves and reduce warning times. Citizens can report malfunctioning alert speakers to the C5 CDMX through social media, phone, or an online portal.
