Residents of the north side of St Lucia are experiencing unprecedented levels of flooding, after heavy rainfall hit the island over the past weekend (November 6).

Acting director of the country’s National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) Maria Medard said that improper waste disposal in the area worsened the flooding on the day, which resulted in a ‘compromise’ of the roads and bridges.

St Lucia Prime Minister Philip J Pierre, addressing a press briefing, noted that a schedule for desilting is being maintained.

Adding, however, that debris such as old stoves, fridges and plastic bottles being disposed of in waterways leaves the area more vulnerable to flooding, he urged St Lucians to keep the area clean.

The island recorded more than six inches of rainfall in the most affected areas.