Since 17 February, heavy rains have hit parts of Paraguay, leading to severe floods in the departments of Alto Paraguay, Concepción, and Amambay. The floods have resulted in significant destruction of houses, property, and livelihoods, with many families left in urgent need of basic necessities such as food, water, and medical attention. The Government has declared a State of Emergency in the affected areas. This report presents a detailed analysis of the situation and highlights the immediate needs of the affected communities.
Overview of the Situation The floods have affected around 7,800 families, approximately 39,000 people, mostly indigenous and vulnerable individuals. The communities affected had been suffering from droughts prior to the heavy rainfall, thus compromising their ability to withstand additional climatic shocks. The destruction of houses and property has left many families homeless and in urgent need of basic necessities such as food, water, and non-food items like clothes, hygiene/cleaning products, and kitchen utensils. The situation is further complicated by an outbreak of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya, with nearly 15,000 new cases being reported on a weekly basis by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Wellbeing.
Immediate Needs of the Affected Communities The affected communities are in urgent need of basic necessities such as food, water, and non-food items like clothes, hygiene/cleaning products, and kitchen utensils. The destruction of houses and property has left many families homeless and in urgent need of temporary shelter. Medical attention is also required to address the outbreak of mosquito-borne diseases. The Government, non-governmental organizations, and other humanitarian actors need to respond promptly to address the immediate needs of the affected communities.
Forecasted Weather Conditions The weather forecasts suggest that the affected areas are set to receive more rainfall/storms in the days to come, causing further flooding. This situation poses an even greater threat to the affected communities and calls for urgent action by the Government and humanitarian actors.
Conclusion The severe floods in parts of Paraguay have caused significant destruction of houses, property, and livelihoods, leaving many families in urgent need of basic necessities such as food, water, and non-food items. The outbreak of mosquito-borne diseases further complicates the situation, and the forecasted weather conditions pose an even greater threat to the affected communities. Urgent action is required by the Government and humanitarian actors to address the immediate needs of the affected communities and provide them with the necessary support to recover from this disaster.