The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) indicated today that it is prepared and ready to lend support to communities in Kwakwani and other parts of Region 10 that are affected by an increase of floodwater, due to heavy rainfall and swollen river.
According to the Commission, communities in Kwakwani such as Lamp Island, and Ladernsville in Aroraima, Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice (Region 10) are affected due to recent intense rainfall. Residents there have indicated that farms are flooded and the increasing water levels suggest that homes may also be affected. Families have begun to elevate and relocate assets and livestock.
In Ladernsville, Guyana Standard understands that the Community Development Council is working closely with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) to assist residents who may need to relocate if the floods intensify. Several farms are already inundated in that area.
Additionally, the CDC has reported that an average of 37 households are affected at Lamp Island but reports outline that most homes are built on stilts so the water levels are high in yards. Furthermore, 3 families have been evacuated from their homes and have opted to stay with friends and other family members.
The Kwakwani Waterfront has seen at least three feet of rising water which affects the flow of transportation across the Berbice River. The Ministry of Education, Regional Authorities and the CDC are currently establishing a shelter to house affected residents should they require alternative accommodation.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), the Mark Phillips, through the National Taskforce on Flood Monitoring, assured the residents of Region 10 that relief is ready to be dispatched. Additionally, he implores all persons living in low-lying, flood-prone and riverine areas to strongly consider permanently relocating so as to avoid enduring such hazards in the future.
The Prime Minister has indicated that flooding in Lethem and now Kwakwani shows a pattern that can be circumvented. To date, Regions Two, Five, Nine and 10 have reported significant flooding impacts and the Government of Guyana through its various response mechanisms has been actively addressing all related issues.
Rain is forecast to continue countrywide over the next 24 hours according to the National Weather Watch Centre and all are urged to take the necessary flood precautions and to report any impact to local authorities or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on 600-7500 or 226-1114 at any time.
