The increase in discharges from the province of Salta caused the overflow of the Río Salado del Norte. As a consequence, about 85 families were isolated in Santiago del Estero.
The situation affects rural sectors of the Pellegrini and Alberdi departments. There, the local roads became impassable due to the advance of the water.
The affected localities include Alto Alegre, Barranca, Esteko, Santos Lugares, Santo Domingo, and Chañar Bajada. Although the water reached areas near homes, no evacuations were reported.
Meanwhile, defenses were reinforced to prevent further damage. The tasks aim to contain the advance towards populated areas.
Assistance and territorial deployment
The operation involves provincial Civil Defense and municipal commissions. Authorities from Santo Domingo, San José de Boquerón, and Huachana are participating.
The assistance includes the provision of basic supplies and constant monitoring. Additionally, vulnerable sectors are being assessed in the face of new rainfall.
Meanwhile, preventive work continues in critical points. The goal is to reduce risks in the face of possible new floods.
In the area of the río Utis, operational presence is also maintained. It is estimated that there are about 60 isolated families there.
Situation in the río Dulce and the Salavina department
In contrast, the flow of the Río Dulce shows a downward trend. However, consequences from previous discharges persist.
In the Salavina department, 18 families were assisted. The locations reached are Bordo Pampa, Carreta Paso, Malota, and Candelaria.
These communities experienced the impact of the flow released the previous week. Therefore, accompaniment and follow-up tasks are maintained.
The regional water dynamics demonstrate the interconnection of basins. Each water release generates downstream effects.
Environmental characteristics of the Río Salado
The Río Salado del Norte is one of the longest river courses in the country. It originates in the Andean region and crosses provinces in northern Argentina.
Its regime is irregular and depends on rainfall and mountain contributions. Consequently, it alternates between periods of low water and abrupt floods. Additionally, it transports sediments that shape wetlands and marshes. These environments support biodiversity and local economies.
However, the occupation of flood-prone areas increases vulnerability. Territorial planning is crucial in the face of extreme events.
In a context of increasing climatic variability, repeated floods demand comprehensive strategies. Sustainable management of basins becomes essential to protect communities and ecosystems.
History of floods of the Río Salado del Norte
Over the past decades, the Río Salado del Norte has recorded significant floods in northern Argentina. These events were associated with intense rains in the upper basin and controlled flow releases.
In different years, the overflows affected rural areas of Santiago del Estero and neighboring provinces. As a consequence, temporary isolations and damage to roads and homes occurred.
Additionally, the recurrence of these episodes highlighted the vulnerability of low and flood-prone areas. Therefore, defense works and contingency plans were promoted to mitigate future impacts.
