Abnormal heavy rains in December have resulted in overflowing of the Paraguay river, thus affecting the provinces of Concepción, San Pedro, Presidente Hayes, Alto Paraguay and particularly the provinces of Asunción, including the metropolitan area, and Neembucu in the southern part of the country. Severe damage to housing and infrastructure is reported and about 60 000 people are estimated to be directly affected by the floods. An assessment of possible damage to the agricultural sector has not been made yet. Previous abundant rains in October/November had been beneficial to the developing wheat and planting of the maize crops, and satisfactory outputs were expected. An appeal for international assistance has been made by the Government.