Paraguay: Flood risk in Asunción

Event

Water levels of the Paraguay River in the capital Asunción have risen to 5.98 m (19.62 ft), above the “critical point” of 5.5 m (18 ft), amid heavy rain ongoing since October 20. More rain is forecast for Tuesday, November 13, and Wednesday, November 14, which will likely exacerbate the situation. National authorities have warned that river levels could reach 7 m (23 ft) by the end of the year. Some 6000 families have already been evacuated from river-adjacent areas.

Context

Flooding is common in the capital and is often accompanied by protests due to the lack of assistance available to affected residents, notably a lack of emergency shelters. In 2015, water levels of the Paraguay River reached 7.86 m (25.79 ft), leading to major flooding and destruction in neighborhoods that have still not fully recovered.

Advice

Individuals present in Asunción are advised to follow any instructions issued by local authorities, particularly evacuation orders, keep abreast of weather forecasts, and avoid any protests. Keep in mind that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.