The most affected areas were the far west, the northern coast, the northern plateau and the Itajaí valley; The Civil Protection advises the population to avoid areas subject to flooding and unstable slopes
The heavy rains that have hit Blumenau and the region since yesterday have caused the city to flood this Saturday (7)
Santa Catarina faced this Saturday (7) a day characterized by heavy rains, which caused floods and flash floods in several locations. Around 200 people were forced to leave their homes, although no injuries or casualties were reported. In Bom Retiro, around 50 homes were hit, prompting the evacuation of around 200 residents.
Joinville also suffered the consequences of the rain,which caused flooding and the need to postpone the UFSC,IFSC and IFC unified entrance exams. The Civil Protection, which had issued a yellow alert (potential danger) on Friday, raised the situation to orange alert (danger) this saturday, in response to the forecast of heavy rain.
The most affected areas include the far west, the northern coast, the northern plateau and the Itajaí valley, where rainfall can reach 250 mm. This amount of rainfall increases the risk of landslides and floods. On the southern coast and in Greater Florianópolis, forecasts indicate lower volumes, up to 80 mm, but still with a moderate risk.
The State Civil Protection advises the population to avoid areas subject to flooding and unstable slopes. It is indeed also recommended to instantly report any signs of cracks in the floor or walls to the relevant authorities.The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has also issued a warning of great danger for the central and northern regions of Santa Catarina, due to the risk of floods and landslides.
*Report produced with the help of artificial intelligence
What are some key strategies for disaster preparedness in flood-prone areas like Santa Catarina?
Interview: Understanding the Impact of Recent Flooding in Santa catarina
editor of Time.news (ET): Thank you for joining us today, Dr.Maria Silva,an expert in meteorology and natural disaster management. The recent floods in Santa Catarina have raised significant concerns. Can you summarize the situation for our readers?
Dr. maria Silva (DMS): Certainly. Santa Catarina experienced heavy rainfall on Saturday, with certain areas receiving up to 250 mm of rain, notably affecting the far west, the northern coast, the northern plateau, and the Itajaí valley. This extreme weather led to localized flooding and forced about 200 residents to evacuate their homes, especially in Bom Retiro and Joinville.
ET: That sounds alarming.What are the primary hazards associated with such intense rainfall?
DMS: The primary hazards include flash floods and landslides, particularly in regions where the terrain is unstable. Areas with heavy rain and steep slopes are especially at risk. The Civil Protection Authority has categorized the situation as a “orange alert,” indicating a higher danger level, and residents in affected areas are advised to avoid flood-prone zones and report any structural issues promptly.
ET: Given the warning from the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet), what practical advice do you have for residents living in these at-risk areas?
DMS: Residents should stay informed through local alerts and forecasts. It’s crucial to avoid areas known for flooding and unstable slopes. I recommend keeping an emergency kit ready and having an evacuation plan in place.Anyone noticing cracks in floors or walls should contact local authorities immediately,as these can be early signs of structural failure due to saturation.
ET: The impact on local infrastructure is significant. Can you tell us about the specific disruptions caused by the flooding?
DMS: Certainly. In addition to the residential evacuations, the flooding led to the postponement of entrance exams for institutions like UFSC and IFSC. This disruption affects not only the students but also the education system’s schedule.It underscores the broader economic impact of such weather events as communities grapple with recovery.
ET: How can local authorities better prepare for such extreme weather events in the future?
DMS: Local authorities must focus on improving drainage systems, enforce land-use planning to minimize progress in flood-prone areas, and enhance public awareness campaigns about disaster preparedness. Investing in early warning systems can also save lives by allowing residents to evacuate before conditions worsen.
ET: As the climate continues to change, what trends do you foresee in the frequency and intensity of such weather events in Santa Catarina?
DMS: We may witness increased frequency and severity of weather events similar to what we see now. Climate change is intensifying rainfall patterns, leading to more severe floods and longer dry spells. It’s imperative for the government and communities to adopt strategies for resilience against these changes, focusing on lasting development, infrastructure improvements, and effective emergency response.
ET: Thank you, Dr. silva, for providing such informative insights into the flooding crisis in Santa Catarina. Your expertise is invaluable in understanding the implications of these natural disasters.
DMS: Thank you for having me. it’s vital to keep the conversation alive about disaster preparedness and community resilience in the face of climate challenges.