Dominican Republic prepares for the 2026 National Earthquake Evacuation Drill
The Emergency Operations Center (COE) has called on all of Dominican society to participate this Tuesday, September 8, in the 2026 National Earthquake Evacuation Drill. This preventive initiative, which will begin at 10:00 a.m., seeks to strengthen response capacity and safety protocols in the event of possible seismic events in the country.
The initiative, which integrates both the public and private sectors, educational institutions, and social organizations, has as its main goal to consolidate a culture of effective prevention against natural phenomena.
During the event, you cannot improvise; you must be prepared for what we hope in God never happens, but if it does, we can react with the necessary skill and promptness to save our lives or the life of a fellow human being.
Edwin Olivares, director of the COE
Technological assessment: Alerta RD System
One of the key points of this drill will be the testing of the Cell Broadcast platform, integrated into the National Alert System Alerta RD. During the exercise, it is possible that users may receive a test message with a distinctive sound on their mobile devices.
- No additional application download is required to receive the alert.
- The public is advised to remain calm upon receiving the notification.
- It is essential to follow official instructions and proceed with the evacuation in an orderly manner.
- It is reminded to avoid using elevators and not to run during the evacuation process.
Prevention and safety culture
The National Office for Seismic Assessment and Infrastructure and Building Vulnerability (Onesvie) has joined the call, emphasizing that the constant practice of evacuation routes is vital to reduce risks. Identifying safe zones and establishing defined meeting points are actions that can make the difference between life and death in the face of a real emergency.
With the motto We are all part of prevention, the authorities urge citizens to take this exercise seriously, underlining that preparation is the most effective tool to safeguard the physical integrity of all Dominicans.
