Source: BBC
Vast areas in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil are being hit by the worst flooding in 50 years, forcing the evacuation of more than 150,000 people.
Days of heavy rains brought on by the El Nino weather phenomenon have caused three major rivers to swell, and officials report at least six deaths.
A state of emergency is in force in Paraguay, the worst hit nation, where 130,000 people have fled their homes.
In northern Argentina, some 20,000 people have left their homes.
Dry weather is forecast for the Brazil-Uruguay border region in the next few days, but in Paraguay and Argentina water levels are still expected to rise.
The Paraguay river in the capital Asuncion, is only 30cm (12in) away from overtopping its banks. Officials warn this could lead to widespread flooding in the area.
And it could also affect thousands of other people who live by the Paraguay – the country’s main river – the authorities said.
“(The flooding) was directly influenced by the El Nino phenomenon which has intensified the frequency and intensity of rains,” Paraguay’s national emergencies office said.
Nearly 200 electricity pylons have been damaged or destroyed by strong winds, causing power cuts.
Four people have been killed by fallen trees.
After declaring the state of emergency, President Horacio Cartes said $3.5m (£2.3m) would be immediately available in relief funds for the victims of the flooding.
Categories: Natural Disaster, South America, The Muslim Times