The National Center for Natural Disaster Monitoring and Alerts (Cemaden) faces a dire situation that compromises its ability to work with Brazilian states and municipalities. The institution, responsible for monitoring extreme weather events, suffers from budget problems, staff shortages, and insufficient equipment.
The center's vulnerability emerges when extreme climate events have become more intense and frequent in Brazil. This combination of increased demand and reduced operational capacity jeopardizes the effectiveness of alerts and disaster prevention efforts nationwide.
Cemaden was established in 2012, following the catastrophic rains that hit the Serrana Region of Rio de Janeiro in 2011. At the time, the tragedy resulted in numerous deaths and widespread destruction, highlighting the need for a national monitoring and alert system. However, the article suggests that, more than ten years after its founding, the center's structure has not been sufficiently strengthened to meet the growing demands imposed by climate change.
