Last month’s rainfall is the second highest recorded in the last four decades, says Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips. He made this revelation during the 28th Sitting of the 12th Parliament this afternoon at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara.
“The massive rainfall experienced in May alone, was recorded as the second-highest rainfall across the country in the last 40 years. Guyana’s rainy season usually lasts until early June for Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, the northern parts of Region Six, Seven, Eight, and 10, while it would continue until early August for Regions Nine and the southern parts of Region Six. Based on the latest seasonal reports, however, it is estimated that we will continue to experience above-normal rainfall during the period June to August 2021,” the PM said.
He added that flooding will remain a concern during the period June to mid-July.
The PM said that some 29,300 households in more than 300 communities have been affected by the floods.
PM Phillips told the house that had it not been for the government’s allocation of monies in the 2020 Emergency Budget to strengthen sea defenses and enhance infrastructure, the situation could have been worse along the coast. He noted that President Dr. Ifraan Ali and ministers continue to host stakeholder engagements and partake in relief measures.
He added that President Ali has already given his word that the government will support the restoration of livelihoods after this Level Two disaster fades.
The Prime Minister said that the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has been steadfast in shelter management, supplies distribution, and evacuation efforts. He added that a bank account for donations has also been established.
The PM praised the efforts made by the private sector and non-governmental organisations. More than $35M has been received to date, he told the House.
