Abstract:
Recognizing the urgent need of taking counter measures to the impact of natural catastrophes the Nicaraguan Government has given to natural hazard prevention an important role in its politics. Scientific investigations, mapping activities and the establishment of early warning systems were carried out by INETER. These efforts and the co-operation with the Civil Defence of Nicaragua and other institutions led to first examples of successful early warnings. Local authorities and leaders entrusted with the responsibility for the prevention of local emergencies. The educational system started programs to inform young people about natural hazards. A newbuilding code is under discussion, regional projects in Central America are supported, the responsibilities of state institutions for disaster prevention were defined and the necessary level of funding for important measures of prevention was guaranteed.