SOCIO-ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC DAMAGES FROM HYDROLOGICAL PHENOMENA IN THE RIVERINE POPULATION OF THE CARAHÁ RIVER, LAGES-SC

Abstract

This study assessed the environmental, social, and economic damage caused by hydrological phenomena, such as flooding and inundation, affecting the population living along the Carahá River in Lages, SC. This research focused on residents’ perceptions of these disasters and identified their impacts on water quality, public health, infrastructure, and community safety. Data were collected through structured interviews and focus groups of104 households in at-risk areas along the river. The results revealed that 86.54% of the respondents perceived the water quality as poor, while 59.62% reported being directly affected by flooding. Economic losses and the lack of adequate preventive measures have been identified as factors that increase families’ socio-economic vulnerability. Based on these findings, mitigation strategies have been proposed, such as the implementation of sustainable infrastructure solutions and the promotion of environmental education. This study provides a solid basis for the development of public policies aimed at reducing damage caused by hydrological disasters and strengthening the resilience of riparian communities.