How Phones in Cabo San Lucas Now Warn You of Earthquakes

How Cabo San Lucas Residents Now Receive Earthquake Alerts on Their Phones

Mexico is one of the most seismically active countries in the world, and Cabo San Lucas has recently seen an increase in seismic activity. Time is crucial during an earthquake — just a few seconds of warning can save lives, protect property, and help communities respond more effectively.

To address this growing risk, the Mexican government has introduced a groundbreaking technology: a nationwide earthquake alert system delivered directly to your mobile phone — even if it’s on silent mode.

Mexico Joins Global Leaders in Early Warning

Through the National Coordination of Civil Protection (CNPC) and the Agency for Digital Transformation and Telecommunications (ATDT), Mexico officially launched the system during the Second National Drill on September 19, 2025. For the first time, the Mass Alert System reached over 80 million mobile phone users, making Mexico the fourth country in the world to implement such technology.

According to President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, this system is vital because it ensures alerts even in rural and remote areas, giving people extra seconds to take safety measures before seismic waves arrive.

How the System Works

The alert is transmitted through:

• 14,491 loudspeakers nationwide
• 100 AM/FM radio stations
• 11 commercial TV broadcasters
• And now, directly to mobile phones across the country

The ATDT explained that the alert can be activated in a specific area, such as a town, neighborhood, or city. In the case of nationwide drills, all devices receive the notification simultaneously and instantly. A successful test in April 2025 in Mexico City reached 98% coverage.

How to Activate Alerts on Your Phone

Most mobile devices are automatically enabled for these emergency alerts, but you can double-check your settings:

• Android: Go to Settings > Notifications > Advanced Settings > Wireless Emergency Alerts and make sure they are switched ON.
• Apple (iOS): Go to Settings > Notifications and scroll down to activate the emergency alert options.

For additional assistance, users can call 079 for support.

Why This Matters in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo’s unique geography — bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez — makes it vulnerable to natural phenomena, including earthquakes and hurricanes. With this new system, both locals and tourists will benefit from a few precious seconds of warning that can make the difference between safety and disaster.

This innovation not only reflects Mexico’s commitment to disaster preparedness but also reinforces Los Cabos’ reputation as a destination that values both the safety of its residents and the millions of travelers it welcomes every year.

Stay tuned at The Cabo Magazine for more updates on safety, lifestyle, and innovations in Los Cabos.