Índice de vulnerabilidade a desastres relacionados com fenômenos naturais nos Municípios do sertão do Pajeú, Pernambuco, Brasil

Abstract

The growing concern with the impacts of environmental disasters and the vulnerability of populations in semi-arid regions requires a detailed analysis of the socioeconomic and environmental conditions of these areas. In this context, the present study aims to calculate the Disaster Vulnerability Index (DVI) for the municipalities of the Sertão do Pajeú, a semi-arid region in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, using socioeconomic, environmental, and institutional variables. The research followed a quantitative and exploratory approach, with the purpose of providing support for local risk and disaster management. For the construction of the DVI, the methodologies of Azevêdo (2020) and Morais (2020) were adopted and adapted to the reality of the region. The analysis of the variables was divided into three dimensions: susceptibility, coping capacity, and adaptation; based on secondary data from official sources, such as the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). The calculation of the DVI allowed the classification of municipalities into different levels of vulnerability. Overall, most municipalities in the region were classified as having medium vulnerability. However, the main results revealed significant disparities among municipalities in the region, with considerable variations in DVI values. Municipalities such as Flores, Serra Talhada, and Santa Cruz da Baixa Verde present the highest vulnerability levels, demanding urgent actions to reduce risks and strengthen population resilience. On the other hand, municipalities such as Ingazeira, Tuparetama, and Triunfo stand out for their adaptation and coping strategies, serving as potential models for those facing greater challenges. The results also highlighted the urgent need for investments in infrastructure, health, and education, especially in the most vulnerable municipalities. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of strengthening disaster response capacities and adaptation strategies, while considering local specificities. This study may contribute to the development of public policies aimed at risk reduction and resilience promotion, providing a foundation for territorial management and the prevention of environmental disasters in the Sertão do Pajeú.