Dynamics of inhabited space after the flood in the municipality of Palmares-PE

Abstract

In recent years, the number of recorded natural disasters has increased worldwide, especially those of a hydrological nature. This increase is largely associated with disordered population density and irregular occupation of risk areas, exposing thousands of people to dangerous situations. According to Technical Note No. 1/2023 from the Civil House, prepared in partnership with other government agencies, it is estimated that in Brazil 8,904,136 people are at imminent risk of suffering tragedies related to these events. In this context, this work analyzes the problem of flooding in the city of Palmares-PE, located on the banks of the Una River, which has been frequently affected by floods in recent decades. The general objective is to understand the organizational dynamics of the urban space after flood episodes. Initially, a literature review was conducted on the relationship between cities and water bodies, current legislation, natural disasters—focusing on hydrological ones—and the characteristics of the Una River basin, culminating in the characterization of the study area. Subsequently, data was collected through documentary research with municipal agencies, historical analysis of climatic events, and photographic documentation, in order to map affected areas, identify spatial transformations, and assess socioeconomic and territorial impacts. From the creation of maps using QGIS software and Google Maps, it was identified that urban expansion was directly influenced by floods, causing changes in land use, the formation of new residential clusters away from the center, and the relocation of community facilities.