For the first time, Civil Defense issues sound alert on residents’ cell phones in Curitiba due to storm risk
Curitiba residents received their first-ever sound alert on their cell phones from the Civil Defense regarding a storm risk, utilizing new cell broadcast technology.
In a significant public safety initiative, Curitiba's Civil Defense issued its first-ever emergency sound alert to residents' cell phones on Saturday due to severe weather conditions posing storm risks. This alert was sent using the cell broadcast system, a technology that enables direct notifications to mobile phones in designated areas without requiring prior registration. The alert also extended to the nearby municipality of São José dos Pinhais, highlighting the widespread nature of the potential storm impacts.
The issuance of the alert came after meteorological forecasts indicated the possibility of damaging weather events, and authorities took proactive measures to ensure the safety of the urban population. Reports indicated that the adverse weather had already led to fallen trees and power outages in several neighborhoods, emphasizing the urgency of the alert. Areas like Boqueirão experienced significant disruptions, with a tree falling and blocking access to a home, raising concerns for the safety and mobility of residents.
As the situation unfolded, families like those in Boqueirão sought assistance from the Fire Department to clear obstacles created by the storm, with one notable case being a home blocked on the day a family member was celebrating their 100th birthday. This incident not only underscores the immediate impacts of severe weather on daily life but also reflects the critical role of timely communication and emergency protocols in protecting communities during natural disasters.