Paraguay

Paraguay faces a range of natural hazards shaped by its subtropical climate and riverine geography in South America. Flooding is the most significant and recurrent risk, particularly along the Paraguay River and Paraná River, where seasonal rises in water levels can displace communities and damage infrastructure. Urban flooding is also common in low-lying areas of Asunción. In addition, Paraguay experiences periodic droughts, especially in the Chaco region, which affect water availability, livestock, and agricultural production. Heatwaves and wildfires are also increasing concerns, particularly during prolonged dry periods.

Anticipatory action in Paraguay is developing but remains at an early stage of institutionalization. The country has strengthened aspects of disaster preparedness and early warning through institutions such as the Secretaría de Emergencia Nacional, which coordinates responses to floods and other hazards. There are examples of early actions taken ahead of flood events, including monitoring river levels, issuing alerts, evacuating at-risk populations, and pre-positioning assistance. Some pilot initiatives supported by international partners have introduced forecast-based approaches, particularly for flood risk, aiming to trigger early interventions before impacts fully materialize. However, these efforts are generally implemented on a project basis and are not yet embedded within a comprehensive national anticipatory action framework, with limited evidence of systematic forecast-based financing or formal policy integration.