GUADALAJARA

MEXICO

Guadalajara Metropolitan Area’s Resilience Journey

In Guadalajara, Mexico’s second largest city, steady population growth and climate change have created a critical need to address water management issues, particularly the availability of potable water.

If current trends continue, Guadalajara’s water system will not be able to address growing demand, leading to regular shortages with far-reaching social and health consequences. There must be prompt action to protect and rebuild the water supply, improve the distribution of water, and create social programs to promote water conservation.

The Guadalajara area is located in the western part of the Mexican Volcanic Belt, placing the city and surrounding areas at high risk of seismic activity. The city’s vulnerability is increased by varying soil conditions, aging and poorly constructed buildings, and lack of public awareness of risk. The city believes that proactive engagement, including a focus on more resilient construction practices and greater public outreach, can help minimize the impact of future earthquakes.