…heavy rains predicted for four days

THE Hydrometeorological office has predicted heavy rainfall on Christmas Day and it is expected to last until Wednesday, December 28, with the development of the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).

A statement noted that the ITCZ is slowly but steadily developing over Guyana and the Hydromet office is monitoring the development of the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) which has developed along Guyana’s coast within the last 24 hours.
It was further noted that coastal and inland Guyana is likely to experience periodic, heavy downpours today during the early morning. Based on the current forecast outlook, flooding/ water accumulation are likely to be observed in poor drainage, low-lying and riverine areas. The forecast models continue to show high moisture content in the atmosphere which lies within a favourable atmospheric environment for development of moderate to deep convective clouds.
“The forecasts favour generally overcast conditions with moderate to heavy rain for the morning into early afternoon, after which, a slow but gradual reduction in showers will be observed.”

The areas likely to be affected more are Regions Three to Five and to a lesser but still some concerns, Region Two and Northern Region Six. Rainfall in these areas (Regions Three to Five) are more likely to exceed 100 mm. The remainder of Guyana will see values between 50.0 mm to 80.0 mm.
According to the statement, these weather patterns and conditions will continue on Monday through Wednesday with the occasional heavy downpour, where another peak in rainfall is anticipated for Wednesday over areas in Regions Seven to 10 and some coastal areas in Regions Two, four and Five.

With the forecasted weather conditions coupled with the high tides, coastal areas may experience prolonged water accumulation / flooding in poor-drainage, low- lying and riverine areas added to that of recent rains. In addition, the next period of above-normal high tides will begin from Monday, December 26, 2016.

Coastal Guyana was taken by surprise by a sudden downpour which began on Thursday night and lasted practically throughout Friday, inundating literally every street in Georgetown, the area that seemed hardest hit.
Government however adopted a coordinated approach to tackle the massive flooding and the Public Infrastructure Ministry has put measures in place to bring much-needed relief to citizens.