The Brazilian Geological Survey is adding its expertise to an innovative project in Minas Gerais that combines science, energy, and civil defense to strengthen disaster prevention. The AtuAção Observatory aims to transform technical data into practical actions for vulnerable municipalities.
A disaster prevention in Minas Gerais gained a new dimension with the launch of the AtuAção Observatory, during the traditional Hydrological New Year's Eve, held at last September 30thaccording to one matter published.
The initiative, led by Mining Society of Engineers (SME), unites science, technology and strategic institutions in favor of the population's safety.
The Brazilian Geological Survey (SGB), responsible for operating 80% of the National Hydrometeorological Network (RHN), is one of the main partners.
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Minas Gerais, a state that experiences annual flooding, now has a platform that translates technical information into practical action protocols.
The pilot project begins in Barbacena and can serve as a model for other regions of the country.
Mining and its impact on risk prevention
Mining, a major activity in Minas Gerais, is directly connected to AtuAção Observatory through the Brazilian Mining Institute (IBRAM).
The sector's participation seeks to integrate technical knowledge and social responsibility in the face of disasters.
The SGB already operates in 1,8 Brazilian municipalities with maps of risk areas, offering essential support to identify and prevent accidents in mining and urban regions.
In Minas Gerais, hydrological alert systems monitor basins such as the Doce, Velhas, and São Francisco rivers, which are vital for communities living near areas of mineral exploration and hydrological risk.
Energy as an ally against natural disasters
Another highlight is the presence of Minas Gerais Energy Company (Cemig), which is part of the Observatory’s support network.
The company strengthens the link between the energy sector and disaster prevention, as power outages are common during flood periods.
With shared technical data and unified protocols, municipal managers now have access to strategic information to mitigate risks and preserve lives.
A president of SME, Virgínia Campos, highlighted that combining energy, mining, geology and civil defense strengthens the resilience of municipalities in the face of climate change.
Civil Defense and integrated community training
The Minas Gerais Civil Defense is also a key player in the project. With the digital platform, local managers and community leaders will have easier access to risk maps and action protocols.
In-person and online courses, offered by SGB in partnership with institutions such as Fundação Getúlio Vargas (FGV) and Escola Virtual do Governo (EVG), guarantee the ongoing training of technicians and volunteers.
This training is essential for vulnerable communities to know how to react quickly and safely in emergency situations, expanding the social and community protection network throughout the state.

Climate change and the urgency of practical solutions
Climate change is worsening the intensity and frequency of natural disasters in Brazil. In Minas Gerais, where the rainy season begins in October, cities face annual urban flooding that affects thousands of families.
During the event, experts from different fields, including representatives from Vale and professors from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), emphasized that science must be at the service of practical solutions.
As Marlon Coutinho, regional superintendent of the SGB in Belo Horizonte, recalled, this is the first integrated experience in the state, with the potential to become a reference throughout the country.


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