Red Alert Mismanagement During Recent DANA: A Meteorologist's Account
José Ángel Núñez, the head of Climatology at the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) in the Valencia Community, testified in court about the management of the DANA (an intense weather phenomenon) and raised serious concerns regarding the responses on October 29, when a red alert was issued. Núñez expressed disbelief that, despite the severity of the situation, the only recommended course of action was for citizens to exercise caution while driving.
During his testimony at the Court of First Instance and Instruction number 3 of Catarroja, he detailed the formation of the DANA, which began to take shape nine days prior to the disastrous weather event. He emphasized that the first indications of this adverse meteorological development were present as early as October 20, when national predictions began warning of intense rainfall.
By October 24, forecasts pinpointed the most affected regions—primarily the Mediterranean areas, particularly in Levante, Valencia Community, and the Region of Murcia. Just days later, the outlook for October 29 projected the most severe conditions, characterized by heavy rain and potential flooding.
Núñez recalled that prior to the day of the disaster, AEMET utilized its Twitter account to alert the public about the impending dangers associated with the DANA. On the morning of October 29, a red alert was designated at 7:36 AM, just minutes before it was officially communicated via social media at 7:39 AM. This alert signified that life-threatening conditions could arise within hours, covering three-quarters of the province of Valencia.
Despite the alarming nature of these forecasts, Núñez found it unfathomable that the government's only precaution advised was to steer clear of the roads, particularly when data indicated that the risk was severe. The spokesperson for the government provided minimal guidance, merely suggesting that citizens avoid traveling. Núñez argued that the alerts issued by AEMET were timely and robust, expressing his confidence that the agency's foresight was sufficient to inform both the public and the local administration on potential risks.
Before his court appearance, Núñez shared his calm disposition regarding AEMET's responses, asserting that preparedness is tied to risk probability, which is a fundamental aspect of meteorology and decision-making. He remarked that expecting precise risk management strictly through exact quantities is unrealistic.
In related news, Carlos Mazón, the President of the Generalitat, announced his intention to meet with representatives from DANA victims' associations in the so-called zero zone, the area most affected by the flooding. During a visit to the reconstruction of the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Cheste, Mazón confirmed plans for the meeting, indicating ongoing communication with affected groups.
Mazón's comments arose in response to requests from the Association of Victims of DANA Horta Sud-Valencia, emphasizing the importance of addressing the community's needs directly in the areas impacted by the disaster.
As the investigation into the management of the DANA continues, concerns about the response protocols and the sufficiency of the alerts bring to light critical questions about disaster preparedness and governmental responsibility in the face of natural calamities.
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