Region 9 Flood Update.

An emergency meeting was called yesterday afternoon by the Regional Chairman, Mr Lucas, to discuss the rising water situation and to take appropriate action.

Primary areas of concern for the immediate area were the town water pumps, power generation plant, and telecommunications, as well as public health and sanitation among others. Other vulnerable communities within the Rupununi region and the issues of food security and transportation of critical supplies and services were also highlighted.

Numerous indigent villages are currently cut off completely to ground transportation and many others have had their normally difficult access routes further restricted due to swollen creeks and eroded trails.

RAM Guyana representatives were invited to join in the discussions at the local government board room. Both the Chairman and the attending Health Officer expressed the Region's reliance on RAM aviation assets over the years and the increased demand during periods of tribulation such as these.

This picture show's the Tabatinga creek well beyond it's banks late yesterday afternoon during a subsequent medevac flight. A second image shows the St Ignatious bridge with wading pedestrians.

Community volunteers went house to house this morning in the affected areas using the RAM vehicle to conduct a needs assessment for presentation at a follow up meeting today. The team had received training from the Red Cross two years ago to conduct related activities. At least one household reportedly required immediate assistance.

Although the water levels have stabilized and receded some, the rainy season is still young and the peak floods would typically hit the area in the months of June and July.

Only with your support can these humanitarian services continue to be available to remote and isolated communities in Guyana. Thank you in advance for your prayers and generosity.