The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) as part of a Joint Services effort completed the evacuation of 38 residents of Santa Aratak communities along the Kamuni Creek at 2.50 this morning.
A release from the GDF said that the evacuation became necessary due to the increasing threat of a bush fire in the area, despite the day-long efforts of the Joint Services in combating the fire in an effort to protect the villages.
The residents are housed at a temporary shelter established and managed by the Civil Defence Commission at the Timehri Primary School.
Efforts to contain the fire will continue today.
The Kamuni Creek is a tributary of the Demerara River.
The Guyana Fire Service issued the following release today:
Press Release
April 4, 2024
UPDATE|| Urgent Evacuation Underway as wildfire rages in Santa Mission
The ongoing fire crisis in Santa Mission has reached a critical point, rendering it impossible for firefighters to access the affected areas for extinguishing efforts.
As a result, the focus has shifted to ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents through swift evacuation measures.
Currently, the dense smoke emanating from the fire has prompted the evacuation of 38 individuals from Santa Mission and the neighbouring village.
Due to the severity of the situation, 34 evacuees have found temporary shelter at the Timehri Primary School, while the remaining 4 are being accommodated by their relatives.
The safety and security of the affected residents remain our top priority.
Firefighters, members of the Joint Services and volunteers are working tirelessly to manage the situation and provide necessary support to those impacted by the fire.
Further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
