CDC issues high tide warning; citizens to look out for overtopping, floods

See full statement from the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) below:

Georgetown, Guyana (February 26, 2021): – Between February 27 to March 1, 2021, Guyana will experience above normal high tides.

According to the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), tides will range between 3.04 meters and 3.26 meters.

The table below represents the highest tides for the period.

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) wishes to advise the public, particularly those who reside in riverain and low-lying areas (Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) to exercise precautionary measures to minimise damages to property and prevention of any health hazard.

Residents are advised to take the following actions:

• Report any sea defence breaches.
• Place sandbags where needed.
• Unplug all electrical items.
• Place all important documents in sealed plastic bags or containers and place them in a safe space.

• Elevate all household furniture and appliances.
• Relocate livestock to higher ground.
• Create containerised storage for drinking and cooking water.
• Purify water as prescribed by the Ministry of Public Health.
• Ensure children and the elderly stay clear of floodwater.
• Visit the nearest health centre if you experience any skin irritation or feel sick.

Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs), Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and the municipalities in high-risk regions, as well as GUYSUCO, are asked to be vigilant and take proactive measures to ensure all sluices, kokers, and pumps are operable to minimize flood impacts.

Floods, damages to sea defence, overtopping and landslides should be reported to the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) at 623.1700 or 600.7500.