A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of Monday, engulfing a secondary school dormitory and trapping students.

Emergency services are facing difficulties in extinguishing the fire due to unfavourable weather conditions, according to the government.

Additional injuries have been reported, and preparations are underway to evacuate some individuals to Georgetown, the capital, where a dedicated centre has been established.

Guyanese President Irfaan Ali said that it was a significant disaster, an incredibly distressing and painful situation.

President Ali, as quoted by AFP, announced that medical teams have been stationed at the airport, and Georgetown's major hospitals are fully prepared to provide the best possible care for every child in need.

The government's Department of Public Information expressed deep sorrow and provided an update on the catastrophic fire at the Mahdia dormitory, assuring a comprehensive medical evacuation-supported response.

Guyana, situated between Venezuela and Suriname on South America's northern coast, is the location of the incident.