CDC warns of increased flood risk as heavy downpour persists until Saturday

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has warned that persistent rainfall and unstable weather conditions are expected to significantly increase the risk of flooding across Guyana over the coming days.
In a weather advisory issued on Tuesday evening, the CDC said information from the Hydrometeorological Service indicates that recent weather activity, combined with forecast conditions between May 19 and May 23, is likely to further saturate soils across the country.
The Commission warned that any additional rainfall could trigger or worsen flooding in low-lying and flood-prone communities.
The latest advisory comes after several days of intense rainfall and severe weather alerts issued by the Hydrometeorological Service as multiple regions experienced continuous showers, overcast skies, thunderstorms, and rising water levels.
Over the past week, residents in several communities have taken to social media to post images and videos showing flooded streets, yards, and overtopped drains following prolonged rainfall.
The Hydrometeorological Service had earlier warned that saturated soils, clogged drainage systems, and continued rainfall could lead to water accumulation and localised flooding, especially in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas.
A recent weather brief from the Hydromet Office noted that strong low-level convergence, moisture plumes, and unstable atmospheric conditions were contributing to widespread rainfall across the country.
Hydromet also warned that tropical wave activity and continued atmospheric instability could bring moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds, and lightning strikes.
Rainfall accumulations in some regions were forecast to range between 20 millimetres and 60 millimetres within 24-hour periods.
The agency further advised that spring tide conditions remain in effect, increasing the possibility of overtopping in riverine and flood-prone communities. Marine conditions were also expected to remain rough, with waves reaching heights of between two and 2.5 metres in open waters.
In recent days, the Hydrometeorological Service has repeatedly urged citizens to monitor official advisories and exercise caution during periods of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
The CDC on Tuesday similarly encouraged residents in flood-prone communities to remain alert, safeguard important documents and household items, clear drains where possible, and take the necessary precautions as adverse weather conditions continue.
The Commission said it remains in contact with regional authorities and response agencies and will continue monitoring the situation.