Unauthorised publication of weather information worries Hydromet office

THE MANAGEMENT OF THE LOCAL HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL SERVICE IS
CONCERNED ABOUT THE RECENT SPATE OF UNAUTHORISED PUBLICATION
OF WEATHER REPORTS via social media which can cause national panic.
The hydro met office is the sole national authority on hydrometeorology, and remains committed
to providing Guyanese with the highest quality of service available.
In a release the ‘Met Service’ noted the noble intention of individuals and entities to inform the
public but counselled the information should be of the highest quality and be able to withstand
public scrutiny.
The Hydromet service is concerned about the carefree dissemination of satellite, radar and other
imageries on social media (or any media) with accompanying unverified narratives that officials
warn can lead to unnecessary public anxiety and panic, especially in the context of the ongoing
COVID-19 global pandemic.
In the spirit of ensuring public safety, and guarding the public’s health and well-being, the local
weather office is imploring all media houses and interested citizens to consult with the
department before publishing any hydrometeorological-related data or information.
The ‘Met’ office is assuring that its technical experts and other trained professionals are always
willing and available to clarify and/or provide information on any hydrometeorological
phenomena or events of interest to the general public or those who want to alert the nation about
the vagaries of the weather.
With weather information available 24/7 from credible international and regional media bodies,
the local office said the time is now ripe to forge partnerships with other local bodies and
interested individuals.
The ‘Met’ office is encouraging all Guyanese to make full use of their resources freely
available on its website, the release said.