On February 8, 2025, the city of Pariquera-Açu, located in São Paulo's Vale do Ribeira region, was engulfed by intense rainfall leading to severe flooding and emergency alerts. The rainfall, staggering at over 90 millimeters within the span of just one hour, triggered chaotic conditions across the municipality as residents grappled with the aftermath of nature’s fury.
The rains began early Saturday morning, and by around 7 am, the conditions had worsened with the Defense Civil issuing stern warnings for possible flooding and flash floods. A stationary rain nucleus settled over the city, resulting in continuous precipitation and rapidly rising water levels. Photos shared on social media showed streets transformed by torrents of water, turning the cityscape unrecognizable.
Local officials were quick to respond to the crisis. The Defense Civil launched emergency protocols, notifying residents via cell broadcast systems about the risks posed by the weather. Only those with compatible mobile devices received these alerts as part of the efforts to keep residents informed and safe during the flooding.
Many residents shared their dire experiences as the rain wreaked havoc. "Em 27 anos de vida e morando em Pariquera eu NUNCA vi o que eu vi hoje com essa enchente, inacreditável o estrago que aconteceu," expressed one anonymous resident, illustrating the unprecedented scale of the flooding. Videos captured by locals depicted raging waters coursing down streets, with homes partially submerged.
Fortunately, emergency services were mobilized swiftly. Barge teams from neighboring municipalities such as Cajati and Registro, along with firefighters from Jacupiranga, were dispatched to assist with rescue operations. These teams worked to evacuate families stranded by the flooding, which had rendered many areas impassable.
Despite their efforts, the calamity's impact was substantial. The SP-222 highway faced complete closures due to landslides and fallen trees, compliculating access to and from Pariquera-Açu. Hospital services were also hindered, as the roads leading to Regional Hospital Dr. Leopoldo Bevilácqua were compromised. The hospital's administration stated, "Estamos acompanhando a situação de perto e trabalhando para restabelecer os serviços o mais breve possível," emphasizing their commitment to addressing the community's healthcare needs amid the crisis.
By afternoon, reports indicated numerous areas within Pariquera-Açu were still inundated. The persistent rainfall prompted additional alerts from the Brazilian National Institute of Meteorology (INMET), which had previously declared rainfall risks for 84 municipalities across the region.
To alleviate the struggles faced by residents, the São Paulo government announced the allocation of R$10 million to assist affected municipalities. This funding is intended to support immediate needs including the provision of shelter, basic necessities like food and hygiene products, as well as long-term recovery efforts.
The strong collaboration between local emergency services, community leaders, and state mechanisms aims to navigate the challenging circumstances and facilitate recovery. With the Defense Civil stating, "A prioridade, neste momento, é a retirada de famílias que se encontraram em áreas alagadas," it is evident the immediate focus remains on safeguarding lives and restoring stability.
While the skies may have cleared temporarily, the road to recovery will be long. Residents, officials, and relief teams now face the task of rebuilding and preparing for future resilience. The communal spirit observed within the heart of the city during such trying times reinforces the bonds among the residents of Pariquera-Açu, propelling them forward as they endeavor to restore their community to its former state.