The water level of the Paraíba do Sul River in Campos dos Goytacazes, located in Northern Fluminense, Brazil, has begun to decrease after reaching a peak of 9.87 meters. As of the latest measurement on Monday night, the water level is recorded at 8.51 meters, with further declines expected as there are no predictions for heavy rain in the area. The flood threshold for the river is 10.40 meters, and it did not reach that level, though the current is still considered strong, necessitating ongoing monitoring by authorities in real time.

Despite the decrease in water levels, the Barcelos Martins bridge, or iron bridge, remains closed due to safety concerns after a significant displacement was detected in its central span during the high water event. It is prohibited for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists to use the bridge until further evaluations and repairs can be made. Early on Tuesday morning, teams from the Civil Defense and various city departments, including transit, safety, and public works, convened to assess the bridge’s condition and the impact on local traffic.

This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by communities near the river, as even after the water levels start to drop, the aftermath of heavy rains and flooding can lead to infrastructure concerns that affect mobility and safety for residents. The closure of the bridge impacts the daily commutes and transport routes within Campos, pointing to the importance of timely assessments and repairs in maintaining public infrastructure in flood-prone areas.