"Mexico remembers historic earthquakes as seismic activity increases in September."

As September progresses, Mexico's collective memory revives the anguish and pain associated with the earthquakes that have marked the country's history. In particular, Mexico City—a place that has witnessed devastating seismic disasters in 1985, 2017, and 2022—finds itself once again in a state of alert. This month, several earthquakes and microquakes have been recorded in Oaxaca, the State of Mexico, and the capital itself, raising fears about the possibility of a new major earthquake. The uncertainty surrounding these seismic events is palpable. Although seismic activity has intensified, experts from the Mexican Geological Service (SGM) emphasize that there is no way to accurately predict whether these tremors are precursors to a larger event. In the scientific community, it is known that tremors preceding a major earthquake can be difficult to distinguish from the normal seismicity of a region. This reality creates an atmosphere of anxiety among residents of a city that has felt the impact of nature's force firsthand. In line with this atmosphere of unease, the Seismic Alert will sound on September 19, 2024, during a national drill aimed at honoring the victims of past earthquakes. This exercise, which is repeated annually, also aims to prepare the population for any eventuality. However, merely conducting a drill does not always soothe the latent fears that arise each year in this sensitive month. The recent earthquakes in the capital and its surroundings have led many to question whether these tremors are merely coincidences or if they represent a sign that a more severe event is approaching. However, no authority has confirmed that these tremors are precursors to a major earthquake, suggesting that the population should stay informed but avoid falling into alarmism. It is natural for aftershocks—smaller tremors—to occur following a major earthquake. These aftershocks are part of the mechanical adjustment of the earth, and while they can be unsettling, they typically decrease in frequency over time. For scientists, aftershocks provide valuable information about the main event, but for the public, it is crucial to be informed about the possibility of their occurrence and to be prepared to act accordingly. The SGM reminds us that earthquakes are a recurring phenomenon; the energy accumulated in the Earth's crust eventually needs to be released. As years pass without a major tremor in a region, the likelihood of one occurring increases. This reality can make people feel anxious, especially in a month like September, which carries significant emotional and historical weight. Technology has advanced in many respects, but predicting earthquakes remains a challenge. Despite sophisticated systems in countries like the United States and Japan, an effective technique for accurately predicting earthquakes has yet to be developed. This reinforces the idea that, while fear is understandable, preparation is key to mitigating the impact of a potential disaster. It is essential for citizens of Mexico City and the entire country to remain calm and to educate themselves adequately on what to do in the event of an earthquake. Drills, education on prevention, and the creation of emergency plans are fundamental to ensuring that, in the case of a seismic event, the population can respond appropriately and minimize risks. In this context, the community must work together to foster a culture of prevention and preparedness for earthquakes. History has taught us that nature can be unpredictable, but it has also shown us that awareness and collective action can make the difference between tragedy and recovery. Thus, as September progresses, the residents of Mexico City must confront the legacy of earthquakes with a mix of respect, memory, and active preparation.