During the period October 25 to October 30, 2019, Guyana will experience unusual high tides. According to the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), tides will peak at 3.31 meters.
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) wishes to advise the public, particularly those who reside in riverain and low-lying areas (Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) to exercise precaution in order to minimise damage to property and prevention of any health hazard. Residents are advised to take the following actions:
• Report any sea defence breaches.
• Place sandbags where needed.
• Unplug all electrical items.
• Place all important documents in sealed plastic bags or containers and place in a safe space
• Elevate all household furniture and appliances.
• Relocate livestock to higher ground.
• Create containerised storage for drinking and cooking water.
• Use purification tablet as prescribed.
• Ensure children and the elderly stay clear of flooded water.
• Visit the nearest health center if you experience any skin irritation or feel sick
Floods, damages to sea defence and overtopping should be reported to the National Emergency Management System (NEMS) at 623.1700 or 600.7500.
This alert comes on the heels of the recent high tides that struck the coastland and low-lying areas earlier this month, which left several breaches along the coastal sea defence structures in Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice). Some 400 households were affected.
