Paraguay: Adverse weather forecast across central and southern regions through at least early Sept. 21

Severe weather is forecast across parts of central and southern Paraguay through at least early Sept. 21. A storm system is expected to generate thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail. The Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a special bulletin for storms across the Eastern Region and eastern and southern parts of the Western/Chaco Region. Winds gusting up to 100 kph (62 mph) and rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1.2-2.4 inches) are likely in the affected areas. As of early Sept. 20, a short-term warning for rain with moderate-to-strong thunderstorms, strong to very strong wind gusts, and occasional hail has been issued for central and southern parts of the Eastern Region, including Caazapa, Central, southern Cordillera, western Guaira, Itapua, Misiones, Neembucu, and Paraguari departments; officials will likely issue further warnings over the coming days. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause power outages and property damage.

The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions across the affected region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.