This study explores the impact of short-term weather shocks on poverty in Paraguay, revealing significant income reductions due to heat shocks, particularly in rural areas. The findings indicate that poverty increased by up to 4.2 percentage points, with varying impacts across different regions. The research emphasizes that female-headed households and agricultural workers are particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for tailored adaptation strategies.
In Paraguay, the progress in poverty reduction has stagnated since 2014, a trend attributed to a slowdown in economic growth linked to a series of climate-related shocks. This research investigates the influence of short-term weather shocks on income levels and poverty rates across the country. By utilizing comprehensive datasets including the Permanent Continuous Household Survey, climate temperature data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, and precipitation data from the Climate Hazards Group, the study analyzes the impacts from 2004 to 2019.
The study is situated within the context of Paraguay, where poverty remains a pressing issue amidst a backdrop of fluctuating economic growth. Climate change poses significant challenges, particularly in developing countries like Paraguay, where agricultural livelihoods are directly affected by weather patterns. The research aims to fill the knowledge gap regarding the effects of short-term climate events, such as heat and flooding, on vulnerable populations, highlighting the importance of adaptation and climate resilience strategies.
The findings of this study indicate that short-term weather shocks, notably heat and flooding, have profound impacts on household incomes and poverty levels in Paraguay. Urban areas were notably affected by flooding, while rural households, especially those led by women or engaged in agriculture, are more susceptible to heat and drought shocks. Such disparities underline the necessity for targeted climate resilience strategies to support the most affected populations, thereby enhancing overall societal resilience against climate vulnerabilities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
