THE Ministry of Agriculture yesterday warned of possible flooding in several areas along coastal regions, with forecasts indicating frequent showers over the next 24 hours.

A statement from the ministry said: “We are cautioning residents especially in low-lying regions to take precautionary measures against flooding….given high water levels in canals and saturated land, flooding conditions can result.”
Heaviest rainfall expected over Regions 5 (Mahaica/ Berbice) and 6 (East Berbice/ Corentyne).
The ministry has warned that areas for attention include Black Bush Polder and villages of Lower and Central Corentyne, Canals Polder, The Pomeroon and a number of villages along the Essequibo.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works also issued a public advisory, an alert of the high tides expected from today (December 30) through January 5.
According to the ministry, the predicted high tides are above normal levels, which may result in overtopping of sea and river defence structures.
Several areas on the Essequibo Coast, Wakenaam, Leguan, West Coast of Demerara, West Bank of Demerara, East Bank of Essequibo, Georgetown and West Coast Berbice have been spotlighted as areas of concern.
“All persons residing along the banks of rivers and low-lying coastal areas are advised to take all necessary precautions against possible flooding,” the ministry has warned, “Precautions should also be taken by all mariners, including those operating fishing vessels and larger vessels.”
The use of beaches and foreshore areas for recreational purposes is also being discouraged.
The situation is expected to be continuously monitored and the hotline numbers for the Public Works Ministry are 619-3552, 662-4927, 654-4226, 654-4227, 644-9263 and 226-0650; while the Agriculture Ministry’s hotline numbers are 227-5049, 223-7291, 643 4369(SMS ONLY) to report any flooding or breach.