Information on the nationwide disaster drill scheduled for this coming Friday
Mexico to Conduct Nationwide Earthquake Drill on Friday
The Mexican government has announced that it will conduct a nationwide earthquake drill on Friday, involving over 80 million cell phone users. This drill marks the eighth anniversary of a devastating 7.1 magnitude earthquake that claimed over 350 lives in 2017.
The exercise, which will begin at 12 noon Mexico City time, will simulate an 8.1-magnitude earthquake with its epicenter in Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán. The earthquake siren will ring out from 14,491 loudspeakers, primarily located in Mexico City, and alerts will be issued by 100 AM/FM commercial radio stations and 11 public TV stations.
In addition to Mexico City, the drill will involve all 32 federal entities, with different regions simulating hypothetical emergencies such as hurricanes, urban fires, or tsunamis. The public is asked to evacuate buildings and follow safety instructions. Participants are encouraged to assist and look after children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Local governments, civil protection agencies, security agencies, emergency responders, and everyday residents will participate in the drills. The federal government will also test its cell phone alert system, aiming to send a warning to cell phones in every corner of the country.
The public is asked to remain calm and allow responders to carry out their exercises. It is also recommended that people consider family civil protection plans and identify safe areas in homes, schools, and workplaces. Last year's September drill only tested the alert system in the greater Mexico City area.
The specific organizations participating in the crisis drill on Friday have not been provided. However, the drill aims to allow emergency response protocols to be activated for testing, ensuring that Mexico is prepared for any natural disaster that may occur. The public is urged to participate in the drill and do their part in ensuring the safety of their communities.
