Shelters established in Region Nine as residents affected by severe flooding

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Monday confirmed severe flooding in Upper Takutu – Upper Essequibo (Region 9) affecting farmlands and residents from deep South to the South Pakaraimas. The flooding resulted from consistent rainfall over the past couple of days.

The CDC, working with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Lethem Town Council (LTC) and Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development (MLGRD), established a shelter to house approximately seven (7) families. The impacted residents have transitioned to the facility located at the Tabatinga Sports Complex in Lethem.

Additionally, the Commission has activated its Regional Disaster Risk Management Center (RDRMC) to serve as a secondary shelter to accommodate more displaced persons which are set to be housed there, according to a statement.

The CDC said it is also working with Regional and Municipal Authorities to deliver water purification tablets, water containers, cleaning hampers and other essential supplies. Two small-engine boats will also be deployed by the CDC to aid the RDC. Volunteers from the CDC Volunteer Corps, along with an experienced shelter manager, are assisting the Town Council to coordinate the relief effort.

The Hydrometeorological Service forecasts significant and consistent rainfall countrywide for the next 24 hours and as such, the Commission along with relevant agencies are monitoring all Administrative Regions. Rainfall will measure at least two inches (60mm) in Southern Guyana and one inch (30mm) in the North. Residents of low lying, flooded and flood-prone areas are urged to be vigilant and to take precautions where necessary.

The National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) can be contacted 24 hours a day on 600-7500 or 226-1114 to report any impacts.