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Hailstones the size of baseballs have damaged thousands of homes and more than a hundred schools in Paraguay, reports children’s charity Plan International.
Paraguay’s government declared an emergency in five regions of the country after the storm affected an estimated 70,000 people, reportedly causing two deaths.
More than 120 schools were damaged and nearly £2 million worth of crops have been ruined.
Belinda Portillo, Plan’s Country Director in Paraguay, says: “The storm destroyed homes, affecting thousands of families. There are also reports of crop and cattle losses, affecting people’s income and livelihoods.
“Children were affected by the loss or damage to their homes, as well as damage to school infrastructure and health centres.”
The storm happened on the night of September 21st, but many families remain living in damaged homes without proper shelter.
One affected resident in San Antonio city, Zulli Gonzalez, says: “It was a really bad night because in addition to broken roofs, water inundated our humble homes and everything was wet. We need help urgently.”
The government has been distributing thousands of metal roof sheets to protect families.
Aid workers from Plan International are currently assessing the needs of those living in the affected areas and will be working with other organisations to provide logistical support if necessary.
For more information on Plan’s work or to make a donation call 0800 526 848 or visit www.plan-uk.org
