First approach of a storm surge early warning system for Santos region

Abstract

Historically, extratropical cyclones associated with frontal systems cause storm surges in Santos city. Although there are no fatality records, these events cause several socio-economic loss, especially in vulnerable regions including the Port of Santos. Accepting the impossibility of eliminating the risks, adapting to natural phenomenon can be accomplished through adequate emergency procedures. Early warnings are a key tool to minimize events impact on human activities and prevent economic loss. The present chapter describes an early warning system developed for Santos region, focusing on an intense storm surge event that occurred in October 2016. Executing and sending detailed bulletins once intense events are predicted, reporting the probability of significant impacts on vulnerable areas, is an important feature of the system. Since May 2016, more than 50 comprehensive bulletins were sent, in which at least 20% have warned the possibility of flooding and impacts on urban infrastructure. Currently, the Civil Defense Action Plan is based on this system, notifying the population each time an extreme event is forecast, through a variety of media and by sending cell phone messages, thus enabling residents to be prepared.