Climate change–induced flooding in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is a city that has historically experienced flooding after intense rainfall events. However, in recent years, flooding has become more frequent and severe, reflecting the combined effects of climate change and long-standing urban and governance challenges. Extreme rainfall events have intensified, while factors such as irregular occupation of riverbanks, unplanned urbanization, pollution, insufficient waste collection, river siltation, tidal variation, and failures in prevention and public policies significantly increase flood risks. Together, these elements contribute to rivers in the Metropolitan Region overflowing, often resulting in human, social, and economic losses.
The areas most affected by flooding in Rio de Janeiro share several common characteristics:
Irregular occupation of riverbanks;
Densely populated neighborhoods;
Lack of adequate housing policies;
High levels of pollution;
Inadequate solid waste management;
Silted and poorly maintained rivers and drainage systems;
Limited environmental education;
Low public investment in prevention and risk reduction;
Weak coordination and integrated planning between federal, state, and municipal governments.
Challenges for the community
Flooding poses serious challenges for local communities, including loss of lives and homes, damage to infrastructure, disruptions to transportation and public services, increased health risks, and the deepening of social inequalities. Vulnerable populations, particularly those living in informal settlements, are disproportionately affected, as they often lack safe housing alternatives and adequate access to emergency response and recovery mechanisms.
Community responses and adaptation efforts
So far, responses have been uneven. Government actions have included emergency response measures, drainage and river maintenance projects, and early warning systems, though these are often reactive rather than preventive. At the community level, residents have organized local solidarity networks, mutual aid initiatives, and informal risk-monitoring practices. Some civil society organizations and academic institutions have also contributed through research, environmental education, and advocacy for more inclusive and preventive urban and climate policies. Despite these efforts, long-term adaptation remains limited, highlighting the need for integrated urban planning, investment in prevention, and locally informed climate adaptation strategies.