Hydromet issues flood advisory

—Flash floods expected

DPI, Guyana, Monday, May 11, 2020

The Hydrometeorological Department of the Ministry of Agriculture has issued flash flood warnings for flood-prone areas along to coast.

In an advisory issued today, the department stated that cloudy to overcast skies are observed along coastal Guyana with moderate to heavy thundershowers and rain.

Rainfall accumulation is expected to be between 10.0 mm and 40.0 mm into this evening.

Pomeroon-Supenaam, Region 2 and Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, Region 3 will be most affected today. Other areas will experience cloudy skies with brief showers.

 Frequent showers and thunderstorms are expected on May 12, 13, and 14. Due to the prolonged rainy period, flood-prone areas are expected to experience floods while hilly areas may experience landslides.

The Civil Defence Commission is advising residents in in high-risk communities to remain alert and exercise the following precautionary measures as the department continues to monitor the weather.

• Place sandbags where needed.
• Unplug all electrical items which may come into contact with floodwaters.
• Elevate all household furniture and appliances situated on the ground floor.
• Relocate livestock to higher ground.
• Use purification tablet as prescribed.
• Ensure children and the elderly stay clear of floodwaters

Damage to sea defence and overtopping should be reported to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on (592) 226-1114, 226-8815, 226-1027 or 225-5847, or their 24 Hours National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on (592) 623-1700 and 600-7500.