**Primary Article: Tijuana Faces Significant Landslide Risk**
Recent studies reveal that a substantial portion of Tijuana’s territory is highly susceptible to landslides. According to José Salvador Cervantes Hernández, the Baja California Civil Protection Coordinator, 53% of the area is at risk. Particularly, the Sánchez Taboada delegation has experienced 80% of these incidents, making it the most affected area.
The data comes from a study by the National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred), which emphasizes the need for more rigorous soil mechanics studies. Recent incidents highlight the seriousness of the issue, such as a major landslide in February 2022 in the Camino Verde neighborhood, impacting over 350 homes.
Cervantes Hernández explains that the sandy soil composition of Tijuana paired with moisture and heat cycles contributes to these landslides. During winter, rain and fog increase soil moisture, which then dries and destabilizes in the heat of spring and summer, putting properties at risk. Fault lines and infrastructure issues, like water leaks, exacerbate the problem by accelerating ground movements.
He stresses the importance of geotechnical and geophysical studies, suggesting building foundations should reach depths of 40 meters, far exceeding the currently mandated 3 to 4 meters. The state’s Civil Protection department has identified over 30 monitoring points, a number of which have structures marked as highly vulnerable. The department indicates that around 1,726 families would need to be relocated due to these risks.
**Secondary Article: Ongoing Efforts and Risk Management in Tijuana**
Efforts continue in Tijuana to mitigate the impact of potential landslides, especially in critical areas like Playas de Tijuana. The new Risk Atlas released by the Civil Protection includes active landslide zones to better prepare and inform residents and developers of the associated risks.
Monitoring is heightened during the rainy season to swiftly identify and respond to any movement that might lead to landslides. These efforts also aim to raise awareness and encourage better urban planning in light of the ongoing threats posed by Tijuana’s natural landscape and urban development trends.
In a related issue concerning seismic activity, residents are urged to prepare for possible strong impacts from rain-reduced stability and climatic influences on the earth’s foundation. The continued collaboration between government entities and urban planners is vital to developing resilient strategies for the future safety of Tijuana’s inhabitants.