GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Guyana is expected to face substantially higher-than-usual rainfall over the next three months, according to a new Hydrometeorological Service outlook that warns of a markedly wetter December–February period and heightened flood risks across low-lying communities.
The forecast, unveiled Monday at the 19th National Climate Outlook Forum, shows rainfall totals for the upcoming season could surpass normal levels by a significant margin, with more frequent rainy days and a greater likelihood of intense downpours that may overwhelm drainage networks.
“We are heading into a period where rainfall intensity and volume are projected to climb sharply,” Deputy Chief Hydromet Officer Haymattie Danny told participants, emphasizing that climate data now plays a “critical role in every sector of national development.”
Climatologist Komal Chandila said model guidance reveals a strong wet-season signal across most regions, though conditions will not be uniform. Parts of Regions Six and Nine could still experience lower-than-average rainfall and remain under drought watch, presenting a contrasting climate outlook for different regions of the country.
For coastal Guyana—where communities lie below sea level—the prospect of heavier rainfall raises familiar concerns: overtopping, street flooding, saturated farmlands, and rapid runoff during high-intensity showers. Meteorologists also warned of possible lightning storms and flash-flooding when moisture surges combine with local wind patterns.
Agriculture officials urged farmers to closely monitor advisories, noting that a wetter season could influence crop cycles, drainage needs, and livestock health. Public-health authorities said wetter conditions typically drive increases in mosquito populations and water-borne diseases.
Despite the strong wet-season signal, officials cautioned that temporary dry spells remain possible, particularly when Saharan dust episodes suppress rainfall — a phenomenon observed across the Guiana Shield.
Guyana’s vulnerability to intense rainfall events remains a major national concern, with government agencies accelerating flood-mitigation and drainage upgrades in recent years. The Hydromet Service said it will provide more frequent updates as conditions evolve and encouraged residents, farmers and community leaders to “remain alert and prepared” as the wetter season approaches.