The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has launched a coordinated response following significant flooding caused by overtopping along the West Coast Demerara, spanning the communities of Cornelia Ida, Hague, Jib, and Fellowship.
According to the CDC, the flooding—triggered by heavy overtopping of the sea defence—has affected the bottom flats of more than seventy homes, leaving them covered in water and silt. The Hague Nursery School was also impacted, with reports indicating that its entrance was entirely submerged.
An initial assessment conducted by the CDC and the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) determined that approximately eighty-five (85) households situated near the sea defence were affected. While no residents opted to relocate to shelters, officials are closely monitoring the situation.
Government and Local Response
The Chairperson of the Hague/Blankenburg NDC reported that Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Hon. Vikash Ramkissoon, Regional Chairman Mandanlall Ramraj, and other government officials visited the affected communities to assess the situation firsthand.
The NDC provided meals to impacted families and mobilized its part-time workers to assist with cleanup efforts. It is also coordinating with the CDC to distribute cleaning supplies to households.
CDC Update
The CDC confirmed that cleaning supplies have been distributed to all affected households as well as the Hague Nursery School. Residents were advised that overtopping is expected to continue over the next 48 hours due to spring tides.
In a precautionary advisory, the CDC urged residents to secure valuable items and, if possible, vacate the area for their safety.
The Commission stated that it will continue to work closely with regional authorities and the NDC to provide relief and monitor the evolving situation on the West Coast Demerara.
