The Caribbean Community (Caricom) is grieving from the death of at least 20 children in a fire that swept through a dormitory at the Mahdia Secondary School, about 100 miles south-west of Georgetown in Guyana, early Monday morning.

“We mourn with the families, friends and communities who are impacted by this horrifying event,” Dr Carla Barnett, Caricom Secretary General, said in a statement.

“On behalf of Caricom, I extend sincere condolences to the Government and people of Guyana,” she continued, adding “Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of unimaginable loss.”

Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali said described the incident as “horrific” and “painful”, adding that his government was mobilising all resources to care for the children.

The government said several other students were being treated for injuries, and at least six of them were flown to the capital for treatment.

Ali said officials were contacting parents and mobilising psychologists to help deal with those affected by the fire.

Additional reporting by AP