The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Sunday revealed that some 20 properties were damaged after a “freak storm” ravaged Bath settlement in Region Five (Mahaica- Berbice) on Friday night.
The CDC, in a press release, noted that the storm began on Friday night, as a combination of “unusually high winds and heavy rains and that a “cone shaped bout of wind” was seen moving temporarily overhead.
In the aftermath of the storm on Saturday, a CDC assessment team found that 1.2 miles of property were affected along a straight path heading northeast to southwest. In that locale, 20 properties recorded damages.
“There were varying degrees of damage to properties and structures, mainly roofs and fences,” the CDC reported, noting that the chicken pens, storage sheds and some crops were also damaged.
One resident, the CDC said, also reported that a quantity of her chicks died as a result of the storm. Other residents reported that their household appliances, furniture, equipment, clothing, school supplies and a motorcycle all suffered extensive damage.
When the News Room visited the area on Saturday, many residents were attempting to salvage parts of their houses. In the aftermath of the storm, 26-year-old Gomattie Pariag, a resident, was among those who said that she is still trying to regain her composure after such an experience.
Because of the damage faced, the CDC said that a quantity of food and cleaning hampers have been delivered to the Region Five Regional Democratic Council; those are being distributed to residents of Bath Settlement.
Added efforts are also underway to assist those persons impacted by Friday’s storm and they are expected to receive replacement sheets on Monday.
The CDC said that it will work along with the local authorities and other government agencies to continue to monitor the situation closely.
Meanwhile, the Hydrometeorological Office through the Ministry of Agriculture, has advised all residents countrywide to prepare for consistent rainfall as the rainy season is in full effect. Between 30mm (1.1 inches) and 70mm (2.7 inches) of rainfall is expected over the next twenty-four (24) hours.
Persons are urged to contact their local authorities if they are impacted in any way or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) ON 600-7500 or 226-1114 at any time.
