Global warming, caused by the emission of greenhouse gases, has intensified the volume and frequency of rainfall
As They leave a trail of material damage, lost lives and entire communities left destitute. Cities such as Recife, Belo Horizonte, Curitiba and São Paulo faced intense rains that revealed a combination of critical factors: the worsening of climate change and the precariousness of urban infrastructure. The , caused by the emission of greenhouse gases, has intensified the volume and frequency of rain. This is consolidated scientific data, but many Brazilian cities continue to ignore the signs. Meanwhile, deforestation and disorderly occupation contribute to the waterproofing of the soil, preventing water infiltration and overloading drainage systems.
Another point is the historical neglect of infrastructure. Many of the urban drainage networks were designed for a much lower rainfall volume than the current one, in addition to being poorly maintained. Rivers and canals are often blocked by improperly disposed waste, which further exacerbates the problem. Disorderly urbanization is also another challenge. Low-income regions are occupied without planning and with little or no adequate infrastructure, exposing vulnerable populations to greater risks.
But what to do in this scenario? Solutions exist, but they require planning, investment and political will. The adoption of green infrastructure is a promising path. Creating permeable spaces, such as parks and squares, helps absorb rainwater and reduces the burden on drainage systems. The protection of watershed areas and the depollution of urban rivers are also fundamental. Another urgent measure is environmental education: raising awareness among the population about the impact of inadequate waste disposal is essential to prevent clogging of drainage systems.
It is necessary to change the way we plan and manage our cities. This means incorporating nature-based solutions and increasing urban resilience to deal with extreme events. Furthermore, we need to recognize that the climate issue is not a future problem – it is a present reality that demands an immediate response. Each flood that occurs is more than a one-off tragedy. It is a symptom of an urban and political system that has failed to anticipate and prevent the impacts of a changing climate. If we don’t change now, the next flood will already be waiting, ready to repeat this story of destruction and suffering.
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
