Assessing the Impact of Barthes' Semiotic Theory on Floods: A Case Study of the River Vez Basin in Portugal

This study uses Barthes' Semiotic Theory to examine flood narratives in Portugal’s River Vez basin, emphasizing the cultural dimensions of flood perception and mythmaking. By analysing local narratives, specialized literature, and comparative data-driven studies, it decodes the symbolic meanings that shape community responses and resilience to floods. Findings reveal that, while predictive science is crucial for flood management, integrating socio-cultural insights and strategic policy planning enriches resilience by aligning technical measures with local perceptions. The se-miotic approach not only enhances communication between authorities and affected communities but also offers a critical perspective for evaluating technical models that may overlook social im-pacts. Future research should expand on interdisciplinary methods that merge technology with cultural insights, supporting inclusive, adaptive flood risk management in a changing climate.