Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
Germany Launches Natural Hazards Portal for Extreme Weather Information
Residents in Germany seeking up-to-date information and guidance concerning extreme weather events and other natural disasters now have a new, centralized online resource. The Natural Hazards Portal (NGP) has been introduced to provide crucial support and data to the public.
Portal Aims to Enhance Public Safety and Awareness
Digital Minister Volker Wissing announced on Friday that the Natural Hazards Portal (NGP) is designed to assist residents in determining potential risks to their homes or current locations. “This initiative enhances safety for everyone in Germany,” Wissing stated during the portal’s inauguration in Offenbach.
Comprehensive and Accessible Information
Sarah Jones, head of the German Weather Service, emphasized that the website consolidates current alerts, scientific analyses, and forecasts in an easily understandable manner. This ensures that critical information is accessible to all citizens.
Key Features of the Natural Hazards Portal
The portal offers information in both German and English to aid in preparation for impending threats such as:
- Flooding
- Extreme Cold
Additionally, it provides practical advice for individuals who may be affected by severe weather conditions. Germany already operates a nationwide emergency alert system that sends warnings to mobile devices during critical events. The NGP complements this system by offering detailed and accessible information.
Collaborative Development and Future Expansion
The NGP is a joint effort by the German Weather Service, Germany’s 16 federal states, and the Office of Civil Protection. Currently, the site primarily focuses on hydrological hazards, including:
- Flooding
- Storm Surges
However, there are plans to progressively broaden the portal’s scope to encompass other natural hazards like:
- Ozone Pollution
- Forest Fires
- Drought
- Avalanches
- Earthquakes