In the newspaper "El Comercio" (Lima) quoting from 'El Observador' of Uruguay states that 5,000 persons have been affected by the rio Cuareim in the Province of Artigas which borders Brazil as the river crested 12.8 meters above normal. The rio Yi in the northeast overflowed due to the rains causing damage to about 400 persons in the Provinces of Florida, Durazno and Treinta y Tres. Officials say the situation is critical because two floodings occurred consecutively between 20/21 December and 27 December. Too many things are now happening to be able to report on all of them.--Manuel Plenge <MAPlenge@southernperu.com.pe>