NEC tests landslide simulation technology in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil & Tokyo, Japan, October 19, 2015  NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701), has successfully concluded a series of trials in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, using innovative technologies and solutions to monitor the potential of natural disasters.

These trials utilized NEC’s innovative tool for landslide simulation and advanced warning, marking the first time these technologies were tested in Latin America. Moreover, the tests leveraged public data provided by the Center of Operations of Rio de Janeiro City (Centro de Operações da Prefeitura do Rio (COR) and the knowhow of NEC specialists who were dedicated to studying the region’s geological conditions.

“NEC’s solution utilizes sensors and data, such as rain gauges, topography maps and radars, in order to provide intelligent analysis in support of effective decision-making in the early warning process for citizens in high risk areas,” said Mr. Márcio Moura Motta, Deputy Secretary of the Rio de Janeiro city’s Civil Defense Secretariat.

These trials were carried out in order to protect the population of Rio de Janeiro, particularly during the rainy season, when landslides frequently strike the area.

NEC`s system is based on the numerical modeling analysis of a wide range of conditions, including the stability of slopes, soil layers, rain data, land use and underground conditions. The information is collected by a network of sophisticated sensors then analyzed in a big data platform, which provides highly accurate landslide risk levels looking forward up to three days in advance.

“NEC remains dedicated to the development of technologies and solutions for monitoring landslide conditions and providing early warnings for natural disasters,” said Daniel Mirabile, CEO, NEC Latin America. “NEC’s experience throughout the world with natural disasters in areas vulnerable to earthquakes and heavy rains has placed it on the leading-edge of technologies that reinforce the resilience of our communities.”