Stop dumping waste in canals – Agri Minister to public

…as March rainfall hits historic high

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has revealed that the Hydrometeorological Service of Guyana has recorded excessive rainfall for the month of March- reported the highest for this period in its history -and is strongly urging members of the public to desist from disposing of waste in public canals.
He made the disclosure during a recent social media publication on the Agriculture Ministry’s Facebook page on Tuesday.
“Yesterday [Monday], the Hydrometeorological Service of Guyana put out a statement through the Ministry of Agriculture advising the public about heavy rainfall. Today, I asked the Head of Hydromet for the data, and it shows that we have recorded more rainfall than any other day in March so far,” the minister said.
Despite ongoing efforts to mitigate the effects of flooding, Mustapha noted that improper waste disposal continues to pose a major challenge.
“And we are ensuring that all our systems are in place. The canals are being cleaned, but we are encountering difficulties where residents are throwing garbage into the drainage canals. They have to desist from doing that, as it is putting a strain on our systems. These are some of the problems we are facing, and I am working along with the NDCs to continue monitoring and keeping systems in place so we can minimize flooding if there is any,” he added.

Unstable weather
Meanwhile, the Hydrometeorological Service has warned that unstable weather conditions are expected to affect Guyana over the next six days (March 23–28, 2026), resulting in widespread rainfall with the potential for flooding and, in some cases, worsening existing conditions—particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
According to the agency’s synoptic analysis, current weather conditions are being influenced by strong low-level convergence, supported by moisture transport from the trade winds. This is further enhanced by upper-level divergence, creating a highly unstable atmospheric environment.
These combined factors are contributing to increased cloudiness, frequent showers, periods of moderate to heavy rainfall, and isolated to scattered thunderstorms. These unsettled conditions are expected to persist throughout the week, as forecast models indicate that the current atmospheric pattern will remain in place.
The public can expect widespread rainfall, at times heavy; thunderstorms, particularly during the morning to early afternoon periods; and reduced visibility during intense showers.
Potential impacts, the ministry said, include localized flooding, especially in flood-prone and low-lying areas, water accumulation on roadways, leading to hazardous driving conditions, disruptions to outdoor activities and lightning and gusty winds associated with thunderstorms
Members of the public were advised to avoid flood-prone areas and take steps to reduce risks. This includes clearing drains and waterways to ensure proper drainage, securing important documents and items to minimize damage, exercising caution when driving or walking in potentially flooded areas, and preparing emergency supplies such as water, food, medication, and flashlights. Persons are also urged to stay vigilant and informed through updates from the Civil Defence Commission and the Hydrometeorological Service.
The Civil Defence Commission is encouraging the public to report any instances of flooding, rising water levels, or related impacts to the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) via telephone at 226-1027 or through WhatsApp at 600-7555.