Response team activated as Reg 9 communities underwater

In light of reports that several communities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) are underwater due to continuous downpours, a response team was activated, including the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), among other agencies.
As the agencies continue to monitor the situation, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips was briefed on the ongoing assessments in affected areas, which include St Ignatius, Annai, Aranaputa, Karasabai, Masekenari, and Aishalton.
Officials indicated that, based on preliminary information, the impact has primarily affected transportation routes and access to and from some communities, while detailed assessments at household and community levels are ongoing.
The briefing also examined national and regional response arrangements, including communication systems with affected villages, monitoring of water levels, and the readiness of emergency support in the event conditions worsen.
Discussions further focused on the possible need for food and medical assistance, as well as the identification of emergency shelter locations should displacement become necessary.

Phillips, who has responsibility for the CDC, directed that response efforts be coordinated through the CDC’s regional structure within the region in close collaboration with regional officials, the GDF, the GPF, and other supporting agencies.
He stressed the importance of continuous monitoring and timely reporting to ensure that all relevant agencies remain updated as the situation develops. “Regular situation reports are necessary to guide response efforts and ensure coordination among all agencies,” the Prime Minister emphasised during the briefing.
Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand and Regional Chairman Karl Singh also participated virtually and provided updates from the regional level.
Region Nine has long been identified as one of Guyana›s most flood-prone regions, with communities in the South Rupununi and surrounding areas regularly experiencing inundation during periods of prolonged rainfall.
Meanwhile, the CDC is working alongside the agencies to monitor water levels, conduct damage assessments, communicate with affected villages, and identify emergency shelters and relief measures where necessary.
Officials have also pointed out that Region Nine’s geographic and climatic conditions contribute significantly to its vulnerability. The flat savannah terrain, combined with seasonal rainfall and upstream water flow from neighbouring areas, can result in rapid water accumulation and slow drainage, increasing the risk of widespread flooding during adverse weather conditions.
As a result, flooding in the region is widely regarded as a recurring challenge rather than an isolated event, with agencies maintaining heightened vigilance during the rainy season to support early response and coordination efforts.