Asunción, Paraguay – June 5, 2025, the water level of the Paraguay River in the Asunción section reached 4.06 meters, marking its highest point in over two years. This is directly attributed to the heavy rainfall that concentrated over Asunción and the Central region from early Thursday morning into the afternoon.
Record Rainfall and Rapid Water Level Rise
According to the Paraguayan Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH), approximately 120mm of torrential rain fell over Asunción and the Central region in about two hours on Thursday morning. Eduardo Mingo, head of the DMH, explained in a call with Radio Monumental 1080 AM that "Asunción and Central were affected by a powerful thunderstorm cloud early Thursday morning, resulting in intense rainfall in a short period." This amount of rainfall is nearly half of the usual monthly precipitation, leading to widespread flooding and traffic disruptions across the city.
The current rise in water levels follows a similar pattern observed a week prior. Last week on the same day, the Paraguay River also reached 4 meters before receding, and on Wednesday, it recorded 3.94 meters. However, the 4.06 meters recorded on Thursday marks a 12-centimeter increase from Wednesday, clearly demonstrating the impact of the recent heavy downpour on the river's water level.
Highest Water Level Since April 2023
The Paraguay River's water level surpassing 4 meters is the first time it has done so since April 27, 2023, when it recorded 4.01 meters, approximately 2 years and 1 month ago. While that rise was also due to heavy rainfall, this time, the water level rose more rapidly due to a greater amount of rain in a shorter period.
Background and Impact of Paraguay River Water Level Rise
The Paraguay River, the fifth-longest river in South America, significantly influences Paraguay's economy and ecosystem. Its water level fluctuates greatly depending on seasonal rainfall and inflow from upstream areas. While water levels generally rise during the rainy season from October to March, recent climate change has led to more frequent extreme weather events, resulting in unpredictable water level fluctuations.
This rise in water levels is directly affecting residents in Asunción and its surrounding areas. In particular, residents of the "bañado" low-lying riverside areas are annually exposed to flood risks, and many households are once again facing inundation or considering relocation. Government authorities have activated emergency plans for flood prevention and aid for displaced residents.
Future Outlook and Authorities' Actions
The Paraguayan DMH anticipates that the Paraguay River's water level may rise further in the coming days as rainfall is expected to continue. Continuous monitoring is crucial, especially since upstream rainfall can further impact downstream water levels.
Relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC), the Paraguayan Navy, the National Administration of Navigation and Ports (ANNP), and the Secretariat of the Environment (SEAM), are sharing real-time Paraguay River water level data and closely monitoring the situation. These agencies will assess potential risks associated with rising water levels and, if necessary, take measures for resident evacuation and relief efforts.
A river level exceeding 4 meters signifies a flood alert, and an emergency could be declared if it surpasses 5 meters. Therefore, authorities are continuously providing information on rainfall forecasts and water level changes, advising residents to avoid low-lying areas and prepare for evacuation. This situation underscores Paraguay's vulnerability to increased rainfall variability due to climate change.
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