By Sophia Boccard,

Architectural Designer

A closer look at Protección Civil and their critical role during hurricane season.

In light of the heartbreaking news coming out of Texas where devastating storms have left more than 130 people dead, with many still missing and unaccounted for I found myself wondering: if something catastrophic were to happen here in Mazatlán, would I even know what to do? Would I know where to go? Who to call?

The lack of early warning systems and coordinated emergency response in parts of the U.S. got me thinking seriously about the systems in place right here at home. Mazatlán is no stranger to tropical storms and hurricanes, and while we’ve been lucky in recent years, it only takes one direct hit to change everything. So, I decided to learn more about who is responsible for protecting our city when the weather turns deadly and what role we can play in staying safe.

The reality of how chaotic a major storm could become hit me one evening, standing at the edge of Olas Altas as the first drops fell and the sky opened up with the tears of Mother Nature. It always starts light at first, then hard and fast, pounding the pavement like a drum. The clouds churn dark above, and in the distance, lightning forks across the horizon. The tropical storm is no longer a forecast; it’s here. And while many of us rush home to safety, others may not have that option. What happens to them?

 

What is Protección Civil?

Protección Civil Mazatlán is the city’s emergency management force, activated znot only in times of disaster but year round, with a focus on preparedness and public education. Their mission is clear: “To protect the lives and property of people in the face of natural or man-made disasters, through a permanent system of prevention and risk mitigation, always safeguarding the physical and mental integrity of society as a whole.”

From coordinating emergency evacuations to reinforcing coastal areas, from setting up temporary storm shelters to broadcasting real-time updates across social media, Protección Civil is Mazatlán’s frontline defense when nature turns hostile.

What Happens Before the Storm

Even before a tropical storm or hurricane hits, the work has already begun. Using local risk maps and data from CONAGUA and other agencies, Protección Civil activates protocols days in advance. They coordinate with the mayor’s office, DIF Mazatlán, the fire department, Cruz Roja, and the military to identify vulnerable zones, designate shelters, and stock them with food, water, and medical supplies.

They also launch prevention campaigns across social media and radio, advising citizens not to leave pets behind, to avoid flood-prone intersections like Avenida de la Marina, and to remain vigilant even after the skies clear.

 

When the Storm is Here

When a storm arrives, Protección Civil is in full force. Their crews monitor rainfall, wind speeds, and coastal surges. They respond to emergency calls, conduct rescues, and assist in evacuations. In flooded neighborhoods, they provide transport to shelters. They`re the team that will climb a ladder to secure a rooftop tarp or tow a vehicle out of rising water.

According to their official reports, more than a dozen shelters can be activated across the city, with special attention given to rural zones where access to transportation and infrastructure is limited. These shelters, coordinated with DIF and SEDENA (Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional), are equipped not just with basic supplies, but with staff who know how to offer calm in chaos.

What Happens After

Long after the storm passes, their work continues. Protección Civil carries out inspections on weakened structures, clear debris, restores safe access to roadways, and begins the long process of recovery. They document damages and coordinate with government relief agencies. But more than that, they listen. They learn from each storm so that next time, Mazatlán is even more prepared.

 

How You Can Stay Safe

Protección Civil’s social media pages, particularly their Facebook page, are the best places to get updates before, during, and after a storm. They post everything from shelter locations to school closures to road hazards in real-time. In the event of an emergency, you can also contact Protección Civil directly at 669 132-8651 ext. 332, a number worth saving in your phone ahead of time.

You can also visit their website at proteccioncivil.mazatlan. gob.mx or follow them directly on Facebook for alerts.

Have an emergency kit ready at home. Know the flood zones. If you live in a vulnerable area, identify the nearest shelter in advance. And above all, don’t underestimate the power of water or the speed at which a storm can turn dangerous.

As hurricane season approaches its peak, let’s not just hope for safety -let’s plan for it. And let’s thank the people at Protección Civil who are working every day, rain or shine, to make sure when the storm hits, Mazatlán is ready.