At precisely 11:30 a.m. today, millions across Mexico paused as sirens blared and cellphones buzzed, signaling the start of the First National Earthquake Drill of 2025. The simulation, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the devastating 1985 Mexico City earthquake, envisioned a hypothetical magnitude 8.1 quake with an epicenter in the Gulf of Tehuantepec.
In Mexico City, the seismic alert system activated nearly 15,000 loudspeakers, prompting evacuations from schools, government buildings, and businesses. Public transportation systems, including the Metro, temporarily halted services to participate in the drill. Additionally, approximately five million residents received test alerts via the Cell Broadcast system on their mobile devices, a technology being refined to ensure broader reach and reliability.
The drill extended beyond the capital, encompassing 12 states, including Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Chiapas. In coastal cities like Puerto Vallarta, the Navy conducted simultaneous tsunami response exercises, coordinating with local authorities to test evacuation routes and emergency protocols.
Emergency services nationwide engaged in simulated rescue operations, assessing response times and inter-agency coordination. Citizens were encouraged to identify safe zones, practice evacuation procedures, and assemble emergency kits containing essentials like water, non-perishable food, and important documents.
Officials emphasized the importance of these drills in fostering a culture of preparedness. Laura Velázquez Alzúa, head of the National Civil Protection Coordination, stated that such exercises are crucial for evaluating and improving the country’s disaster response capabilities.
As Mexico continues to enhance its emergency preparedness infrastructure, today’s nationwide drill serves as a testament to the country’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens against natural disasters.
