Paraguay: Flooding forces 22,000 to flee their homes Jan. 26

Event

According to Paraguayan authorities, at least 22,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in the capital Asunción due to major flooding along the Paraguay river and its tributaries. Water levels reportedly rose to 5.79 m (19 ft). More rain is forecast for the coming week, which is expected to exacerbate the situation.

On Monday, January 22, the municipal government declared a state of emergency in Asunción. The most affected areas have been the neighborhoods of Bañado Norte, Bañado Sur, and La Chacarita. Other areas impacted by the flooding include Vía Férrea, Banco San Miguel, Cerro Guy, Arenera, and Sector Varadero.

Context

Flooding in Asunción in late 2015 and early 2016 forced some 100,000 people to flee their homes.

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. The presence of flood water and a subsequent lack of clean drinking water increases the risk of respiratory and water-borne diseases.

Advice

Individuals present in Asunción are advised to follow any instructions issued by local authorities, particularly potential 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.