Severe storm with hail batters Itapúa, causing damage at Rally site

A fierce storm, characterized by strong winds and hail, battered southern Paraguay in the early hours of Saturday, leaving a trail of destruction in Encarnación and Cambyretá. The severe weather struck as the World Rally Championship (WRC) event was underway, causing concern among residents, tourists, and international teams present in the Itapúa department.

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Strong winds and hail caused damage in Encarnación and Cambyretá early Saturday.

The storm's intensity was particularly felt along the Encarnación waterfront, where the Fan Zone and Service Park for the rally were set up. Strong winds toppled tents, signage, and other light structures. Additionally, trees fell in various parts of Encarnación, and the iconic welcome sign for Cambyretá collapsed on Route PY14 due to the powerful gusts.

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The severe weather struck with force in the districts of Encarnación and Cambyretá, causing concern among residents, tourists, and international delegations.

In response to the severe weather, the Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) issued a special bulletin. The alert highlights ongoing storm cells developing over the eastern region's southern area. The current warning for the Itapúa and Misiones departments includes moderate to heavy rain, thunderstorms, intense wind gusts, and a high probability of hail throughout the morning.

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The force of the wind caused tents, signage, and some light structures to overturn.

Meteorologist Celia Sanguinetti indicated that these conditions are expected to continue affecting the area sporadically throughout the day. While the southern regions are most impacted, scattered showers are anticipated in the central and eastern parts of the Oriental region. The DMH continues to monitor the situation closely.

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A special bulletin warns of storm cells developing over the southern area of the Oriental region.