What happens when extreme weather, power cuts and communication failures hit towns and cities at the same time? In this episode of lensEU, we explore how well prepared Europe is for crises – and what authorities and the public can do to protect themselves.

CORRECTIV surveyed all 401 counties and urban districts in Germany about their state of crisis preparedness. The findings reveal gaps in emergency plans, staffing, shelters and preparations for prolonged power cuts.

We also hear from emergency responders and a mayor in Ukraine about their experiences. Our colleague Cátia Vilaça from the Portuguese media outlet Gerador reports on the impact of severe storms in Portugal, while Polish security expert and author from OKO.press, Michal Piekarski, discusses efforts to rebuild crisis preparedness.

The key message is clear: we should not wait until a crisis hits to take action. We need to prepare in advance and learn from the experiences of others.

Host and producer: Lilith Grull

Editorial contribution: Johannes Gille, Katarina Huth, Frida Thurm, Marius Münstermann, Carolin Lewandowska, Philipp Waak, Benjamin Werner, Stella Hesch, Rose Mintzer-Sweeney

Comments and feedback: europe@correctiv.org

LENS EU – A closer look at the issues shaping Europe’s shared community is a collaboration between media organisations and institutions from across Europe. The joint project is co-funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission.