Rio Pardinho Surges 3 Meters in 2 Hours, Prompting Evacuation in Santa Cruz do Sul

In Santa Cruz do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, the Civil Defense has initiated an evacuation protocol for the Navegantes settlement in the Várzea neighborhood due to a rapid rise in the level of the Rio Pardinho. The river's water level surged approximately three meters in under two hours, rising from about 3.30 meters at 9:40 AM to 6.33 meters by 11:45 AM. By 3:00 PM, the level had reached 7.34 meters, surpassing the local flood level of 7.20 meters. According to Reginaldo Brito de Campos, coordinator of the municipal Civil Defense, the river level is expected to continue rising. This forecast is based on substantial rainfall in upstream areas and the anticipation of further instability, with predictions of 80 millimeters of rain in the coming hours and intense instability expected by 10:00 PM. Heavy rainfall overnight on Monday, combined with the predicted precipitation and runoff from the upper regions near Sinimbu, contributes to the risk of flooding in the city's lower areas. The evacuation is a preventative measure to minimize potential damage, with residents advised to elevate their belongings. The local government, in collaboration with the Army and the Secretariat of Social Development and Inclusion, has established a shelter to accommodate an estimated 200 to 300 residents who may need to leave their homes, providing essential support such as food and clothing.