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Rio Bravo Overflows in Ciudad Juárez After Intense Rains from Hurricane Polo
Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico – The Rio Bravo (Rio Grande) has overflowed its banks in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, following heavy rains brought by the remnants of Hurricane Polo. The river’s flow surged to 180 cubic meters per second, causing flooding in an urban area of the city, specifically near Bernardo Norzagaray Boulevard, between Del Charro and Juan Pablo II avenues.
The municipal Civil Protection department reported that the water had not left its channel in Juárez for 20 years. The current rise, with a maximum approximate height of 2.96 meters, is comparable only to the 2.83 meters recorded on August 1, 2006. The flood level is set at 2.59 meters.
Impact of Hurricane Polo’s Remnants
The significant increase in the river’s flow is attributed to water originating from Doña Ana County and the Sierra de Socorro in New Mexico, a direct consequence of the rainfall generated by Hurricane Polo’s remnants between Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.
In the affected region, stretching approximately one kilometer from Del Charro Avenue to Juan Pablo II Avenue, the river’s high level reversed the regular flow in a storm drain that typically channels water from the roadway into the Bravo. This led to the inundation of the area, leaving only two lanes available for traffic moving from west to east.
Traffic Disruptions and Safety Measures
Due to the flooding, drivers were advised to reduce their speed, exercise extreme caution, and avoid areas with significant water accumulation. The municipal Traffic Safety coordination implemented closures and modifications to vehicle circulation on Juan Pablo II and Versailles boulevards, Rafael Pérez Serna Avenue, and Bernardo Norzagaray Boulevard.
Civil Protection authorities have indicated that while the Rio Bravo remains above the flood level, it is expected to recede in the coming days. As of 6:05 AM this Thursday, the river’s level was approximately 2.87 meters, with a peak height of 2.96 meters recorded in the preceding 24 hours.
Historical Context and Ongoing Monitoring
This event marks a significant hydrological occurrence for Ciudad Juárez, highlighting the vulnerability of urban areas to extreme weather phenomena. Authorities continue to monitor the river’s levels and advise residents to stay informed through official channels. The long-term implications of such an overflow on the urban infrastructure and local ecosystems will be assessed as the water recedes.
The incident underscores the importance of robust urban planning and emergency response systems in regions susceptible to riverine flooding, especially in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
Source: ljz.mx