Inundações e mapeamento participativo na localidade de Baixa de Santa Rita - Salvador/BA

Abstract

This study investigates natural disasters, adverse events that generate negative impacts on vulnerable regions, putting populations at risk. It focuses on hydrological disasters, such as floods, floods and flash floods, which cause material damage and disturbances in urban dynamics. The main objective of the research is to analyze the distribution of areas susceptible to flooding in the locality of Baixa de Santa Rita, in Salvador, through a participatory mapping, correlating this information with the perception of the community and the actions of the public authorities. The methodology adopted involves a qualitative approach, with semi-structured interviews conducted with residents of Baixa de Santa Rita. This approach aims to understand recurrent flooding in the precarious urban community by exploring how residents perceive and cope with these events. The research seeks to integrate the knowledge of local communities with scientific methods for a more comprehensive understanding of flooding problems. The results of the research highlight the urgency of preventive and adaptive measures in the face of the challenges of flooding in downtown Santa Rita, evidenced by the mapping of 297 buildings in areas of medium and high risk to flooding. The temporal analysis reveals a critical seasonality during the rainy months, underlining the direct influence of climatic conditions on disasters. Based on data from the 2010 Census, the survey shows a clear connection between the population's income and exposure to disasters, particularly floods, highlighting socioeconomic vulnerability. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of integrated approaches that consider not only disaster exposure, but also socio-economic conditions, to effectively improve the resilience and quality of life of vulnerable communities. The research highlights the need for public policies that address not only the events themselves, but also the structural and social conditions that contribute to the vulnerability of these communities to natural disasters.