Earthquake Drill in Mexico City

The irony of the situation was apparent to Mexicans, for whom the drills are a way of life, even a minor annoyance. Many noted the contrast between the orderly, almost mundane quality of some drills and the chaos of real life.

In a first-person account posted to CNN partner Univision Network’s website, reporter Janet Cacelin wrote about her experience in the network’s office building. “We headed out to Paseo de la Reforma Avenue and once again saw the same office workers who hours earlier were chatting, playing and getting bored during the drill. Many had said it was a waste of time.

The 1985 disaster led to changes in building codes and enhanced emergency preparation measures, including the annual drills. This year was slightly different. The country was on edge from a September 7 earthquake that struck off the southern coast, triggering tsunamis and sending shockwaves as far as Mexico City and Guatemala City. Five states suspended drills in solidarity with those affected, and to avoid alarming residents.

Elsewhere across the country on Tuesday, the drills continued as usual. In Puebla, the local Red Cross touted the success of the city’s drill on social media, sharing pictures and saying the exercise helps prepare people for natural disasters, including earthquakes.