Mexico City stages massive 8.2-magnitude earthquake drill to test emergency response
Mexico City held its First National Large-Scale Earthquake Drill on Wednesday. The exercise simulated an 8.2-magnitude quake with an epicentre near Acapulco, Guerrero. Emergency teams tested their response across multiple scenarios, including building collapses and hazardous material incidents. The drill unfolded with a simulated collapse of a building on Avenida de la República. Rescue crews used extended-arm cranes to extract trapped victims, while a Red Cross canine team searched for survivors in the rubble. Sofía, an officer from the Citizen Security Secretariat (SSC), took part to help raise public awareness of earthquake preparedness.
At the Institute of Forensic Sciences, responders tackled a mock toxic spill. Meanwhile, units from the Emergency Rescue and Medical Squad (ERUM) managed a simulated pedestrian bridge collapse, complete with a fire. Three helicopters from the Cóndores group performed tactical landings and takeoffs to support the operation. Iván, a Red Cross paramedic with six years of experience, led the coordination of medical teams. His role ensured that first aid and evacuation procedures ran smoothly during the high-pressure scenarios.
The drill brought together multiple agencies to test their readiness for large-scale disasters. Helicopters, search dogs, and specialised rescue units all played key roles in the exercise. Authorities aim to use the findings to improve future emergency responses.
