THE Hydrometeorological Service of Guyana on Sunday issued a special weather bulletin warning of widespread rainfall, and an increased risk of flooding across the country up to May 15.

According to the bulletin, unstable atmospheric conditions are expected to continue affecting Guyana, particularly coastal regions, resulting in periods of moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds.

It was noted that rainfall is expected to increase significantly between May 14 (Thursday) and 15 (Friday), with all regions likely to be impacted during the period. The agency added that rainfall is expected to decrease after May 16.

Forecast models indicate rainfall accumulations between 25 millimetres and 50 millimetres within 24 hours, from today through Wednesday.

However, as atmospheric conditions become increasingly unstable, this could rise to between 25 millimetres and 75 millimetres within a 24-hour period.

Against this backdrop, the agency indicated that the weather conditions are being influenced by tropical waves moving westward near the borders of Suriname and French Guiana, as well as the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which is expected to enhance atmospheric instability over Guyana.

As such, citizens have been advised to prepare for widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, stronger winds, increased water levels and saturated soil conditions.

Hydromet warned that the conditions could lead to localised flooding, particularly in flood-prone and poorly drained communities. Water accumulation on roadways could also create hazardous driving conditions.

The bulletin further cautioned that outdoor activities, including construction and sporting events, may face disruptions due to persistent rainfall and thunderstorms.