Itaipu lowers reservoir flow to curb Paraná flood

The Special Flood Commission (CEC) of Itaipu monitors rainfall evolution and the behavior of the Paraná River in light of the forecast of intense precipitation in the Iguaçu River basin and upstream areas of the reservoir. According to projections from the Division of Hydrological and Energy Studies, the river level is expected to fluctuate between the 109- and 112.50-meter marks in the coming days. On the morning of October 9, the measurement at the Friendship Bridge recorded 109.17 meters above sea level.

The gradual reservoir-lowering strategy creates a small holding volume intended to cushion the flood peak, helping to lessen impacts on populations in flood-prone regions.

In the San Rafael neighborhood of Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, Itaipu activated the contingency plan on Wednesday (Oct 7) with early alerts to residents, hydrological monitoring, and preventive evacuations. By the morning of October 9, 23 families had been moved to safe locations. Assistance includes transportation of people and belongings, logistical support, installation of tents and toilets, food provision, and distribution of supplies for meal preparation, with the help of volunteers and community members.

Technical teams maintain continuous monitoring of river levels while coordinating actions to provide temporary shelters on higher ground, equipped with basic services, water, mattresses, roofing sheets, and food.

Source: Itaipu Binacional Credit: https://www.colunadomeio.com.br/noticia/itaipu-adota-estrategia-preventiva-para-reduzir-impactos-da-cheia-do-rio-parana