An initiative of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, CoastWAVE aims to strengthen resilience, preparedness, and best practices across Atlantic and Mediterranean coastal communities. The “Tsunami Ready” programme certifies towns and cities with high levels of readiness for tsunamis and other sea-related hazards through improved alert systems, risk awareness, and community training.

Loulé, with its 14km coastline covering Quarteira and Almancil, is the first municipality in Portugal to receive this distinction, joining around 100 others worldwide. To achieve certification, the local Civil Protection Service met 12 UNESCO indicators across three areas: risk assessment, response preparedness, and recovery capacity.

Led by Tatiana Neves and Fernando Leandro, with support from Instituto Superior Técnico researchers, the team developed detailed flood-risk maps, evacuation routes, and meeting points, with 13 being in Quarteira and 11 in Almancil. Fieldwork began in 2020, with evacuation signage completed in Quarteira earlier this year, and Almancil is expected to follow by the end of the year.

Public awareness has been a key focus, with monthly information sessions reaching over 1,000 residents and visitors. A dedicated mobile app helps users locate safe zones, while hotels, schools, and public facilities regularly host educational workshops. Emergency drills and recent siren tests in Quarteira have also enhanced readiness.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: CM Loulé;

Further improvements include new “Meo Beach Cam” surveillance cameras to monitor coastal conditions and training for emergency operators. Portugal joins Spain, Morocco, France, Italy, Egypt, and Turkey in the CoastWAVE 2.0 network, with Loulé and Cascais representing the country.

According to partners of the project, Loulé’s achievement sends a strong message to the Algarve and other regions. “Being ‘Tsunami Ready’ doesn’t eliminate the risk, but it ensures quick and effective action,” said Maria Ana Baptista, from UNESCO’s coordination group.

Mayor Vítor Aleixo expressed pride in the recognition, calling it “a reflection of Loulé’s commitment to protecting its communities and a milestone for local resilience policy.”