The state of Paraná, Brazil, is officially facing a water emergency. In early May, the state government declared the emergency status across the entire region due to a prolonged drought that has significantly lowered river levels and begun to impact the public water supply.
The Companhia de Saneamento do Paraná (Sanepar), the primary water utility, is actively monitoring the situation. According to their latest report, the integrated water supply system serving Curitiba and its metropolitan area is currently at 73.55% capacity. This figure places the reservoirs below the critical 75% threshold, signaling a serious strain on resources.
Despite the concerning levels and the official emergency decree, Sanepar has explicitly stated it is not considering the implementation of water rationing at this time. The decree from the state government does authorize concessionaires like Sanepar to adopt such measures, including rationing, to guarantee supply, but the company has chosen not to activate this protocol for now.
The weather forecast offers little relief. Predictions for the month of May indicate a continuation of unfavorable conditions, with scarce rainfall and temperatures expected to remain above the seasonal average. This outlook suggests the drought could intensify, potentially worsening the water scarcity issue in the coming weeks.
In response to the crisis, the state government has enacted strict prohibitions on non-essential water use. The decree bans the use of treated water from the public network for activities such as washing sidewalks, patios, and vehicles, irrigating gardens and lawns, and filling swimming pools or other high-consumption recreational uses.
Sanepar is emphasizing the critical role of public cooperation in mitigating the drought's effects. The company urges residents to drastically reduce their consumption, using potable water strictly for essential activities like personal hygiene and food preparation. This collective effort is seen as vital to preserving the remaining reserves.
The situation remains fluid as authorities and the utility company balance the need for conservation with the immediate demands of the population. For now, the strategy focuses on public awareness and usage restrictions rather than enforced rationing, but the low reservoir levels keep all options on the table should conditions deteriorate further.
Based on reporting from g1.