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Date Published: 18/11/2025

Cádiz prepares for Spain's biggest-ever tsunami drill on November 20

Thousands to take part in Response25, testing emergency plans and safe zones ahead of potential tsunami

As part of its target to become the first provincial capital in Spain recognised as 'Tsunami Ready' by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, Cádiz is set to stage the largest emergency drill in Spanish history on Thursday November 20.

The exercise, called Response25, will simulate a tsunami triggered by an earthquake similar to the historic 1755 Lisbon quake. More than 20,000 people, including 1,000 emergency workers and thousands from local businesses, schools, and public services, will test the city’s readiness and response times.

At 10am, authorities will receive a warning about a tsunami approaching Cádiz. Shortly after, everyone in the city will get an ES-Alert on their mobile phones, giving citizens one hour to reach one of the many designated safe zones. This early alert system is crucial to give people time to evacuate whether they are at home, work, or on the move.

The drill aims not just to test public evacuation but also coordination between various agencies including the Policía Nacional, Guardia Civil, fire departments, and health services. Special scenarios will include evacuations of schools, hotels, senior residences, and businesses, along with sea rescues for surfers on Santa María del Mar beach. The drill will also evaluate vertical evacuations and heritage protection measures in the city.

Maps prepared by Cádiz City Council clearly mark flood-prone areas and safe zones. Locations like Cortadura and Cerro del Moro are most vulnerable, while Bahía Blanca and inland areas such as Plaza de San Antonio are considered safe.

This thorough preparation comes as part of Cádiz’s path to becoming Spain’s first provincial capital certified as “Tsunami Ready” by UNESCO's CoastWAVE programme, making the city a leader in disaster preparedness.

"The Emergency Plan for Tsunami Risk in Andalusia is one of the most comprehensive and unprecedented in Europe," said Antonio Sanz, Minister of the Presidency in Andalucía. He also stated that, “With Response25, we prepare for the worst but hope we never face it. It’s about planning, coordination and collective effort to keep Cádiz safe.”

This unique drill underscores the growing importance of awareness and readiness in coastal cities vulnerable to natural disasters. Cádiz is setting the bar high for emergency planning in Spain.

Image: wikicommons

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