The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has reported that floodwater in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) is receding while also urging persons to take precautions against further flooding since a tropical wave is expected to sweep across the country over the next five days.
The Hydrometeorological Office indicated that the tropical wave is forecast to hit the coastland, and Regions Seven (Cuyuni – Mazaruni) and 10 (Upper Demerara – Upper Berbice).
In an update, the Hydromet Office said that there has been a reduction in rainfall over the last 48 hours and a mass of dry air is currently suppressing rainfall activity with the current Tropical Wave. While rainfall is being suppressed, cloudy conditions may persist into today.
It added that another tropical wave is expected and will bring some rainfall on Saturday and Sunday.
The weather service added that high winds, mudslides and soil saturation are likely. The Ministry of Agriculture, through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), has been clearing canals and drains, maintaining and operating drainage pumps and sluices, and rerouting resources to those affected areas as required, CDC said.
In a statement, the CDC said that Prime Minister Mark Phillips called a meeting of the National Taskforce on Flood Monitoring to ensure that systems are in place to protect people and property. It added that the Prime Minister is also calling on persons living particularly on the coast, Regions Seven and Ten to ensure that they are prepared for possible flooding.
“I want everyone here to know that we must do all that we can to ensure that citizens are prepared for these next few days. They must be aware of all the advisories and interventions taken by the Government,” he said.
Phillips said that government recognises the obstacles and shortcomings of hazard response but assured the Taskforce that the Government of Guyana is working assiduously to overcome those issues.
As it relates to the weeks-long flooding in Region 9, the CDC said that all shelters are now closed and cleaning and food hampers, water purification tablets, and collapsible water containers have been distributed to affected residents.
The Commission also said that regardless of the weather predictions, it is prepared to assess, respond and mitigate flood impacts.
The CDC encourages all residents to exercise caution during this rainy season and to report any impacts to the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on 600-7500 or 226-1114 at any time. Persons are also urged to take heed to all warnings and advisories issued by the pertinent agencies.
