Guyana closes public schools amid heavy rains

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (AP) Heavy rains have forced authorities in the South American country of Guyana to close all public schools amid widespread flooding.

Agriculture Minister Leslie Ramsammy said Wednesday that eight inches (20 centimeters) of rain fell overnight, causing traffic jams and flooding homes, offices, hospitals and other buildings across the country.

He said the bad weather is expected to persist as Guyana prepares for the start of one of its rainy seasons.

Guyana is prone to heavy flooding in part because it lies mostly below sea level at high tide.