OTTAWA — Canada is set to open a new operations center aimed at enhancing nationwide disaster response coordination. Government officials provided a tour of the facility on Friday, which is expected to be operational next month. Due to security protocols, journalists were required to sign a nondisclosure agreement that prohibits them from disclosing the center's location.

The centerpiece of the facility is the "operational center," designed to resemble NASA's mission control. It features two large, two-story screens connected to over 500 data points. The room can accommodate 80 personnel and is equipped to manage multiple emergencies simultaneously.

Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski emphasized the importance of the new center in improving collaboration during crises. "Part of what we need from a federal emergency management perspective is to make sure we can assist and provide and coordinate resources where there are provinces and communities that aren’t able to manage that on their own," Olszewski stated.

Officials noted that the vision for the center includes partnerships with private sector entities, such as retailers, to ensure access to essential supplies like food and water during emergencies. The facility is designed to house approximately 150 staff members and includes dedicated spaces for other government agencies. Environment Canada will utilize the center for weather monitoring during hurricane responses, while liaison officers from the Canadian Armed Forces will be present for national security incidents.

This new center aims to streamline the federal response to various emergencies, including wildfires, floods, and potential terrorist attacks, by bringing together key personnel and resources in one location.

The center's opening is part of Canada's ongoing efforts to enhance its emergency management capabilities and ensure effective responses to disasters across the country.