CDC ready to support Region 10 if flooding persists

An area in Region Ten that is presently flooded.

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has indicated that it is ready to offer support to Region Ten communities affected by increased floodwater due to the heavy rainfall and swollen river.

Communities in Kwakwani, such as Lamp Island, and Ladernsville in Aroraima, Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice, are affected due to recent intense rainfall. Residents 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, 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.

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 the yards.

Three families have been evacuated from their homes and have opted to stay with 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 Community Development Council are currently establishing a shelter to house affected residents should they require alternative accommodation.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, through the National Taskforce on Flood Monitoring, assured the residents that relief is ready to be dispatched.

Additionally, he implored all persons living in low-lying, flood-prone, and riverine areas to strongly consider permanently relocating 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. Regions Two, Five, Nine, and 10 have reported significant flooding impacts, and the Government has been actively addressing all related issues through its various response mechanisms.

Rain is forecasted 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 impacts to local authorities or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on 600-7500 or 226-1114 at any time.