Uruguay River Flooding Forced Evacuations
Rising water levels have prompted relocations in Salto and Paysandú following heavy rainfall across the basin.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Current Conditions
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The Uruguay River has reached 12 metres at the port of Salto, forcing the first wave of evacuations as water levels continue to rise. Emergency crews have begun relocating families in Salto and Paysandú to local shelters.
Why it matters
Heavy rainfall across the river basin has saturated the region, forcing the Salto Grande dam to increase water releases to manage reservoir inflow. Officials warn that river levels will likely continue to climb, potentially displacing hundreds more residents.
The Uruguay River reached 12 metres at the Salto port, while the Salto Grande dam is releasing 18,352 cubic metres per second. Water levels at Paysandú have surpassed 6 metres and are currently rising at a rate of one centimetre per hour.
The players
Salto Grande Dam
This binational hydroelectric dam regulates water flow along the Uruguay River and is managed by the CTM.
The details
Authorities including the navy, army, and social ministry are assisting with evacuations as riverside roads like Costanera Norte and Costanera Sur close. The Salto Uruguay sports club has opened its doors as a shelter for displaced families.
Timeline
7 October 2026: The river gauge at Concordia measured 10.72 metres.
9 October 2026: The river level at Salto port reached 11.90 metres.
10 October 2026: First evacuations occurred in Salto and Paysandú as levels rose.
11 October 2026: Officials expect dam releases to reach up to 19,000 cubic metres per second.
Seasonal Patterns
The current flooding follows the established emergency response pattern set by the Uruguay River basin flood management protocols. This event mirrors past seasonal rises where heavy rainfall in the upper basin necessitates large-scale water releases from the Salto Grande dam.
Residents near the Uruguay River should avoid closed routes like Costanera Norte and Costanera Sur and monitor official flood alerts. Those in low-lying areas in Salto and Paysandú should prepare for potential evacuation as water levels approach the critical 13-metre mark.
The takeaway
The rapid rise in river levels serves as a reminder for basin residents to remain vigilant during high-rainfall months. Families in flood-prone zones are encouraged to maintain an emergency kit and follow official guidance as infrastructure authorities manage dam outflows.
What happens next
The Uruguay River is projected to reach 12.20 metres at Salto on 11 October, with officials monitoring a potential crest exceeding 13 metres in the coming days.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing regional climate impacts, visit Current Conditions.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Rio Times.
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