Mexico implements a new earthquake alert system for cell phones starting in August.

The National Coordination of Civil Protection of Mexico begins this Monday, August 19, the testing of an innovative seismic alert system that promises to change the way the population receives information about earthquakes. This new service will allow citizens to be notified directly on their cell phones, marking a significant advancement in the strategy for prevention and response to earthquakes in the country. The implementation of this system aims to close the gap left by the traditional alarm system, which has sometimes failed to function effectively in various neighborhoods. Since 2019, authorities have been working hard on this project, intending to establish a mechanism that ensures all Mexicans, regardless of their location, can receive real-time alerts about earthquakes. The main function of this new system is to provide timely information that allows people to move to a safe place before the tremor reaches their location. This measure is especially relevant in a country that, due to its geography, is prone to seismic activity. Laura Vázquez, the head of the National Coordination of Civil Protection, has emphasized that the goal of the tests starting this Monday is to ensure the proper functioning of the seismic alert on mobile devices. This effort not only seeks to ensure that the population is well-informed but also promotes a culture of prevention and preparedness for natural phenomena. The aim is to prepare citizens for the national drill that will take place on September 19, where this system is expected to be fully operational. One of the most interesting aspects of this new development is that the alert will not come in the form of a loud sound that could cause panic, but will be sent via a text message (SMS). This approach aims to reduce the anxiety associated with alerts and ensure that the information is delivered clearly and effectively. Furthermore, users will not need to download any application or have access to mobile data, which enhances accessibility for everyone. This year's national earthquake drill is designed with a scenario of a 7.5 magnitude earthquake, centered in Acapulco, Guerrero, at a depth of 20 kilometers. This exercise aims to evaluate the response of the population and authorities in an emergency situation. It is expected that the perception of the earthquake will be severe in Guerrero, while states like Michoacán, Morelos, and Oaxaca will experience a sensation ranging from strong to very strong. This type of drill is not only an opportunity to test the effectiveness of the new alert system but also serves as a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness. The experience gained from these exercises is crucial for improving response strategies and strengthening the country's safety infrastructure. The implementation of this seismic alert on cell phones adds to other efforts made by the government to enhance safety and disaster response. However, it is essential that the population also engages in training and educational processes to be better prepared for emergency situations. Prevention is a joint effort between authorities and citizens. With the advancement of technology and the commitment of the authorities, it is expected that this new seismic alert system will significantly contribute to saving lives and minimizing damage in the event of an earthquake. The confidence that the alert will be effective could change the security perception of many citizens, providing a sense of control in a situation that has historically been uncertain. The arrival of this service on cell phones represents a historic change in how seismic emergencies are managed in Mexico. The expectation is that, with each test conducted, the system will be refined, and by the time the drill on September 19 arrives, the population will be ready to respond appropriately to a potential earthquake. In this way, the country moves towards a more resilient culture that is aware of the risks associated with its geographical location.