"Seven years since the 8.2 earthquake: reflections on resilience and preparedness in Mexico."

On September 7, 2017, Mexico experienced one of the most impactful seismic events in its recent history, when a magnitude 8.2 earthquake shook the country. With its epicenter in the Gulf of Tehuantepec, this earthquake, considered the strongest in nearly a century, left a profound mark on the collective memory of millions of Mexicans. As we commemorate the seventh anniversary today, it is inevitable to remember not only the magnitude of the natural phenomenon but also the impact it had on the lives of so many people. At 11:49 PM on that fateful night, the ground trembled with such force that many were forced to abandon their homes in an instant. Horror and uncertainty gripped the communities in the south and center of the country, which felt the vibrations of the earthquake and its numerous aftershocks. In total, 4,326 aftershocks were recorded in the weeks that followed, the most powerful of which was a magnitude 6.1, continually reminding Mexicans that nature can be relentless. The then-president, Enrique Peña Nieto, addressed the nation at a crucial moment, alerting citizens to the seriousness of the situation and noting that it was a historic event. As the extent of the damages began to be assessed, it became evident that the human cost would be devastating. In the end, the earthquake claimed the lives of 99 people, a sad reminder of the human toll that nature can exact in its most ferocious form. Although Mexicans have shown resilience in the face of natural disasters, the earthquake of September 7 left a lasting legacy. The reconstruction of homes, recovery of infrastructure, and support for victims marked an era of collective effort. However, these efforts have not always achieved the desired success. The question that arises when reflecting on these years is: is Mexico truly prepared to face the next major quake? This reflection is compounded by a troubling recent study revealing that 80% of Mexicans face challenges in paying their debts, with 10% being over-indebted. These figures echo the economic difficulties facing the population in a context where natural disasters and economic instability can be devastating. A nation's ability to recover depends not only on physical structures but also on the economic and emotional stability of its populace. The combination of the memory of a devastating earthquake and the current debt crisis poses a significant challenge. Mexicans find themselves at a crossroads, trying to strike a balance between rebuilding their homes and the daily struggle to maintain financial stability. How can authorities and civil society work together to build a stronger future? Given such a delicate landscape, it is crucial to strengthen financial education programs and promote solidarity among citizens. Preventing excessive debt and managing resources properly are essential tools for individuals to feel secure in the face of any eventuality, whether it be an earthquake or an economic crisis. The commemoration of this earthquake should not merely serve as a reminder of the past but as a call to action. A review of public policies is needed, along with strategies that integrate physical recovery with real support for communities grappling with economic uncertainty. The most important lesson from September 7 is that preparedness and prevention are the best responses to the unexpected. Looking to the future, Mexico must find ways to strengthen its social and economic fabric, leveraging the resilience it has demonstrated in the past. The story of this earthquake can be a milestone of pain but also an opportunity for change and improvement in how adversity is faced. Thus, by remembering it, it can transform into a symbol of hope and unity in the face of the challenges yet to come.