Mexico commemorates 1985 earthquake

(Vatican Radio)  Saturday is the thirtieth anniversary of Mexico's most devastating earthquake, which leveled large areas of downtown Mexico City, killing ten thousand people. Many changes have been made in the city over the years, which will hopefully prevent the next one wreaking such havoc.

Listen to James Blears' report:

The 8.1-magnitude earthquake at 7:17am on September 19, 1985 wrecked 100,000 homes, more than 5,000 schools, thirteen hospitals, and more than 300 health centers. 

Now, thirty years later, Mexico's capital is rebuilt, adhering to more flexible designs and stricter codes. 

But the historic center of Mexico City still sits on the soft soil of a former lake bed, and the overall area now has a significantly bigger population.

Earthquakes of this magnitude tend to come within 50 year cycles.  Big ones rocked Mexico City in 1911, 1957 and 1985.  Experts tell us it's not a matter of if, rather when.  

The hope, strategy, and plan, is for Mexico City to be much more well-prepared next time to absorb the shockwaves and aftershocks, because there certainly will be a next time.