ST. GEORGE'S: GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICE-AUGUST 1, 2018 - Public officers were dismissed from work early Wednesday, and employers in the private sector were encouraged to do the same as heavy, persistent rainfall continues to affect the country.
Minister of State with responsibility for Information and Disaster Management, Senator Winston Garraway explained that the decision was taken to ensure that workers had sufficient time to get home, given the impassable condition of some roadways, resulting in the use of alternative routes.
Senator Garraway has advised the population to prepare for possible interruptions to the supply of electricity, given the extensive flooding affecting the area near the power plant.
The heavy rainfall is predicted to continue for the rest of Wednesday, and persons are encouraged to take precautionary measures in their immediate environs to reduce the impact of flooding.
Coordinator of the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA), Supt. Sylvan McIntyre noted that while the significant level of rainfall is a big contributor to flooding, persons must also act responsibly and dispose of trash, construction debris and other material in the proper manner, to reduce the likelihood of drains becoming blocked.
The Royal Grenada Police Force has activated its emergency centre, from where it coordinates the response to the current situation. Inspector Trevor Rodney who is responsible for Community Relations said coordinating traffic arrangements across the island is a major area of focus. He also noted that officers have been called to perform several rescue operations, particularly in the River Road and Woburn areas.
To ensure the continued safety of the public, Inspector Rodney issued an appeal to motorists to exercise extreme caution, and to be particularly courteous to other drivers. Persons are also advised to avoid being on the roads if it is not necessary to do so and to avoid flooded areas.
Senator Garraway cautioned, “It is difficult to know the condition of a road if it is covered by water. We may assume that the road is intact, but it could have been compromised, thereby posing a threat to motorists who take the risk of driving through flood waters.”
He also warned that this poses a threat to the lives of emergency responders who are then called in to rescue persons who become trapped in such situations.
The National Disaster Management Agency will continue to provide updates on the current situation.