Intensified rainfall over Guyana Thursday and Friday

A tropical wave, coupled with the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), is expected to impact Guyana from the morning of Thursday, October 27, 2022 to Friday, October 28, 2022.

This combination of systems is expected to intensify rainfall activity across most of Guyana, particularly coastal and near inland regions, the Hydromet office said in a statement on Wednesday.

Residents can expect frequent to continuous showers, rain, and thundershowers varying from moderate to heavy are anticipated across Regions One to Seven and Ten. Periodic high-intensity rainfall events are anticipated over coastal areas during early morning hours.

Rainfall is anticipated to be in excess of 80 mm within a 24-hour period, with the highest rainfall values expected over coastal areas on Friday. Regions 8 and 9 can expect cloudy skies with scattered showers; 24-hour rainfall is expected to range between 10.0 mm to 30.0 mm.

“These systems (Tropical Wave and ITCZ) are embedded within areas of very high moisture, supported by atmospheric dynamics of strong low-level convergence, and with a strong diffluence pattern in the upper levels. Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate significantly as these systems move across and develop over Guyana,” the statement added.

During this period, seas will be moderate to rough with north-easterly to easterly swells reaching heights of 2.5 m to 3.0 m in open waters. Winds are expected to be easterly at 3.0 to 5.0 meters per second.

The forecasted conditions will be coupled with above normal high tides. This combination of intense rainfall and above normal high tides is likely to result in flash flooding/ponding in low lying, poorly drained and riverine areas.

There is also a risk of landslides/slips in hilly areas as soils will become heavily saturated. Areas with thundershowers are likely to experience lightning strikes and wind gusts.

Citizens are advised to take the necessary precautions in these conditions. In addition, drivers and road users are also advised to exercise caution on roadways as visibility is likely to be significantly reduced in periods of heavy showers and roads will become slippery and or flooded. Loose outdoor items and livestock should be secured.