GEOGRAFIA FÍSICA A EVOLUÇÃO DA GEOGRAFIA FÍSICA COM O USO DE SISTEMAS DE INFORMAÇÃO GEOGRÁFICA: APLICAÇÕES, DESAFIOS E CONTRIBUIÇÕES NO MONITORAMENTO E PREVENÇÃO DE DESASTRES AMBIENTAIS EM QUELIMANE, MOÇAMBIQUE

Abstract

This study examined the impact of the incorporation of GIS into Physical Geography, with an emphasis on applications related to the monitoring and prevention of environmental disasters in Quelimane, Mozambique. Given the city's increasing vulnerability to extreme weather events such as floods and cyclones, the use of GIS proved to be essential. The results highlighted the technological transformation in the analysis of geographic data, providing a more efficient and detailed approach. GIS allowed for the creation of georeferenced databases and the modeling of geographic information to identify risk areas. In the context of Quelimane, challenges were identified, including limited technological infrastructure and disorderly urbanization. However, the importance of GIS in preventing environmental disasters and the need for awareness and public action were emphasized. In summary, this study demonstrates how GIS has driven Physical Geography, contributing to the safety and resilience of the community in the face of environmental challenges.