SIC NEWS INTERVIEW
Civil Protection specialist André Morais warns of gaps in strategic planning in Portugal and argues that municipalities reinforce prevention, mitigation and decision support systems, highlighting that Civil Protection should not be limited to responding to emergencies, but above all be a planning and prevention instrument.
The Cláudia depression has caused destruction in several regions of mainland Portugal. So far, there have been records of at least three fatalities and several injuries, as well as dozens of people left homeless. Authorities warn that adverse weather conditions will continue, with heavy rain, strong winds and the risk of flooding, and call on the population to avoid unnecessary travel and follow safety instructions.
In an interview with SIC Notícias, André Morais highlighted the need for Portugal to continue strengthen responsiveness to storms of this size.
The expert also highlighted the importance of investing in planning, prevention and mitigation by Civil Protectionhighlighting that these measures are fundamental to reducing the impacts of extreme meteorological phenomena.
“It is important to understand that people can live both inland and on the coast, in the north or south, and do not need to be exposed to unnecessary dangers. Therefore, when we look at this issue, it is essential to assess whether municipalities are preparing their previous intervention plans and whether there is an effective articulation of strategic planning. In my technical opinion, this is where there is a flaw. We look at Civil Protection as a response, but it is actually planning and prevention”, argues the expert.
André Morais argues that political decision-makers at municipal level adopt public Civil Protection policies that are not limited to supporting “first responders”.
According to the expert, it is essential to have duly equipped geographic information systems, decision support systems, prior intervention plans and carrying out exercises of Civil Protection. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of technical teams capable of carrying out risk analyzes and promoting structural prevention.
