THE Ministry of Agriculture has bolstered preparation to withstand the effects of heavy unseasonable rain, although the Hydrometereological Office predicted favourable weather conditions through mid-June.

Through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), critical drainage and irrigation (D&I) ground work was undertaken at key locations in Regions Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Three (West Demerara/Essequibo Islands), Four (Demerara/Mahaica), Five (Mahaica/Berbice), Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) and Ten (Upper Demerara/Berbice).

The Hydromet Service has forecast that between 10 and 15 days of near normal to normal rainfall this month but Acting NDIA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Lionel Wordsworth told the Guyana Chronicle recently that his agency is in readiness to handle any heavy downpour.

He said all sluices and pumps along the coast are in operation and fully geared to quickly discharge accumulated water in canals within farming and residential areas.

The Ministry is also advising farmers and other residents to be on the alert and take necessary precautions in anticipation of heavy rainfall.

But, despite a few heavy showers on Sunday, the Ministry has reported that there was no water accumulation in farming and residential places.

However, large pools were evident in Georgetown where drainage is managed by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).

The NDIA is currently assisting the M&CC with the operation of the Kitty Pump Station and one of the two refurbished Liliendaal pumps.

Guyana is not the only country which has suffered from heavy rainfall in recent times.

Neighbouring Brazil experienced severe floods, forcing tens of thousands of people from their homes and at least 15 died.

June 6 also recorded heavy rains in Hobart and Launceston in Tasmania, Australia and June 7 saw similar conditions when storms swept over southern and eastern England and flash floods hit India, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.