Suscetibilidade à inundação da Bacia Hidrográfica do Ribeirão Pirapitinga (Catalão-GO)

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to analyze the flood susceptibility of the Ribeirão Pirapitinga watershed, located in Catalão, Goiás, Brazil. To achieve this, the study aims to: assess the watershed's morphometry, diagnose the degree of imperviousness, and identify the areas most susceptible to flooding. The methodology is organized into three subsections to provide greater clarity to the study. The first subsection addresses the Morphometric Characterization of the Watershed, presenting the methodology used for morphometric analysis. The second subsection, Watershed Imperviousness, details the methodology applied to evaluate the impervious surface rate in the study area. The third subsection, Flood Susceptibility, describes the methodology used to analyze flood susceptibility in the watershed.From a morphometric perspective, the Ribeirão Pirapitinga watershed exhibits characteristics that suggest low flood susceptibility, such as gentle slopes and an elongated shape, which favor a balanced distribution of water runoff. However, the presence of steeper slopes in certain areas may accelerate runoff during intense rainfall events. The analysis of anthropogenic factors reveals that unplanned urbanization, with approximately 44.5% of the area covered by impervious surfaces, significantly increases flood susceptibility. The overload of the natural drainage system, especially in urban areas, and the reduction of native vegetation—essential for the hydrological cycle—intensify surface runoff problems. Furthermore, the unregulated occupation of floodplains and the lack of proper urban planning worsen the impacts of flooding.The research indicates that, to mitigate these effects, an integrated urban planning approach is necessary, combining both structural and non-structural measures, such as vegetation preservation and land-use control. The development of ecological infrastructure and the implementation of stricter urban zoning policies are essential for sustainable water management and for reducing the vulnerability of the population.