In Mexico, there will be two national drills in 2026 aimed at enhancing earthquake preparedness, scheduled for May 6 and September 19. The announcement was made by Laura Velázquez Alzúa, the National Coordinator of Civil Protection, highlighting that the first drill will take place on a Wednesday to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the National Civil Protection System. This initiative aims to strengthen the culture of prevention within the country following historical earthquake tragedies.

The drills are designed to familiarize citizens with safety protocols and emergency procedures during seismic events. This is particularly important as Mexico is prone to significant earthquake activity, and the drills will emphasize the need for preparedness at all levels of society, including schools, businesses, and households. The introduction of a drill on a Saturday marks a noteworthy shift, as it tests the effectiveness of preparedness during non-working days, aiming to engage more people in the practice of response strategies.

The overall objective is to build a resilient society capable of effectively responding to earthquakes when they occur. By observing and participating in these drills, citizens are encouraged to take individual responsibility for their safety and well-being, reinforcing the importance of community preparedness and collective action in the face of natural disasters.