Review of the hydrological effects of the extreme event Hurricane Eta in the Chiriquí Viejo River basin, November 2020

Abstract

This study analyzes the effects of Hurricane Eta on the Chiriquí Viejo River basin, revealing the significant impact of extreme weather events on the hydrological dynamics of the region. The maximum rainfall recorded on November 4, 2020, reached 223.8 mm, while the flow in Paso Canoa reached 638.03 m³/s, demonstrating the magnitude of the event and the inability of the basin to handle such high volumes of water.

Through a detailed analysis, it was observed that soil saturation resulted in direct runoff of up to 70.0 mm that same day, which shows that the infiltration capacity of the soil was quickly exceeded.

Despite the damage observed, there are currently no advanced hydrological studies on extreme events in critical basins such as the Chiriquí Viejo River.

This lack of research reflects a serious lack of planning and assessment of the risks associated with phenomena of this magnitude.

One of the most critical problems found is the lack of specialized hydrology professionals, who are essential to carry out detailed studies and ensure sustainable management of water resources.

In a context where climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme events, the absence of hydrologists in the region puts the resilience of the basin to future disasters at risk.

The basin's hydraulic system demonstrated its inability to handle high flows, underscoring the need to improve flood control and water retention infrastructure.

In addition, the lack of effective hydrological planning and coordination in the management of hydraulic infrastructures compromises both the safety of downstream communities and the sustainability of hydroelectric reservoirs, vital for the region.