–    Spring tide in effect and to be at record high Sunday
Residents at inland, riverine and coastal areas have been put on alert with the onset of the spring tide, which is expected to be at a record high on Sunday
The spring tide advisory is currently in effect and will continue until March 24. According to Acting Chief Hydromet Officer, Mr. Garvin Cummings, over this period the highest tides for the year will be 3.35metres above datum on Sunday at 04:20hours.
He noted that residents along coastal and near coastal riverine areas are asked to take the necessary precautions against possible flooding due to the extreme high tides occurring over the next five to six days.
Also he said that ocean going vessels and crafts are asked to exercise caution, since wave surges can prove dangerous to small crafts as the sea becomes rougher than normal during this period.
Cummings said during the next 24 hours mostly fair weather conditions are expected, however there is a likelihood of isolated showers over coastal and near inland locations.
He added that forecast models indicate mostly fair weather is expected over the next five to seven days.
He said on Saturday, March 19, the forecast indicates variable cloudy with isolated showers over coastal and near inland districts in the morning and other areas in the afternoon.
According to him rainfall is expected to be between zero  and 15 millimetres (mm) mostly over Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice).
On Sunday and Monday, March 20, 21st, Cummings said partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with occasional showers can be expected, with rainfall also between zero and 15mm.
Additionally, he stated that Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, March 22 to 24th , will see mostly cloudy conditions with occasional showers and rainfall between one to 20mm.
“The La Nina phenomenon still persists and is expected to do so until the end of the first quarter of 2011….occurrences of extreme rainfall events are likely from time to time as La Nina continues to influence our weather pattern,” Cummings said.
For more information on the weather the ministry’s hotline numbers are: 223-7291, 227-5049 or text messaging at 691-000 and website www.agriculture.gov.gy .