The Federal Government has issued a flood alert predicting five days of heavy rainfall that could lead to significant flooding across 21 states and 123 locations.
This warning, obtained from the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre of the Federal Ministry of Environment, highlights potential severe impacts on seven states: Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa.
The forecasted rainfall, expected from September 4 to 8, 2024, is likely to affect the following states and specific locations:
Adamawa State: Mubi, Shelleng, Demsa, Numan, Song, Wuro Bokki, Natubi, Mayo Belwa, Jimeta, Gbajili, Ganye, Farkumo, Abba Kumbo
Benue State: Udoma, Ugbokpo, Ugbokolo, Ukpiam, Otobi, Otukpo, Mbapa, Makurdi, Gbajimba, Gogo, Abinsi
Bauchi State: Azare, Jama’are, Itas, Misau, Tafawa-Balewa
Kogi State: Ugwalawo, Idah, Ibaji, Wara, Omala, Bassa, Ajaokuta
Borno State: Biu, Maiduguri, Briyel
Nasarawa State: Ado, Mararaba, Udeni, Rukubi, Ajima, Odogbo
Gombe State: Nafada, Gombe, Bajoga
Kwara State: Kosubosu, Kaiama
Jigawa State: Dutse, Gumel, Ringim
Oyo State: Kishi
Kaduna State: Kachia, Zaria, Kauru, Jaji
Edo State: Udochi, Agenebode
Kano State: Sumaila, Kunchi, Karaye, Gwarzo, Bebeji, Tudun Wada
Katsina State: Bakori, Bindawa, Funtua, Jibia, Kaita, Katsina, Daura
Kebbi State: Ribah, Argungu, Gwandu, Yelwa, Saminaka, Jega, Bunza
Plateau State: Mangu
Niger State: Ibi, New Bussa, Mashegu, Kontagora, Lavun, Rijau, Magama, Lapai, Katcha, Bida
Sokoto State: Isa, Makira, Gagawa, Shagari, Silame, Goronyo
Taraba State: Ngaruwa, Serti, Yorro, Natubi, Mutum Biyu, Kwata Kanawa, Lau, Kambari, Jalingo, Gun-gun Bodel, Gassol, Garkowa, Bandawa, Beli, Bolleri, Mayo Renewo, Duchi
Yobe State: Geidam, Potiskum, Dapchi, Damaturu
Zamfara State: Bukkuyum, Gummi, Kaura Namoda, Shinkafi, Maradun
The government also warned communities downstream of River Benue to be especially cautious due to rising water levels.
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The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised states in the central and southern regions to prepare for potential flooding. Recommendations include clearing blocked drainages, constructing temporary flood barriers, and evacuating flood-prone areas to safer grounds.
NEMA’s press statement, issued by Head of Press Unit Manzo Ezekiel, emphasizes the need for proactive measures to mitigate flood risks and reduce potential damage. “States must act now to prevent significant losses,” the statement reads. “Immediate actions such as clearing drainages and constructing barriers are essential.”
Residents are encouraged to stay updated with weather forecasts and flood warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and Hydrological Services Agency. NEMA also urges residents to avoid crossing flooded areas and cooperate with local emergency services.
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NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar stressed the importance of early action, stating, “We urge all residents in vulnerable areas to heed our warnings and take preventive measures. Preparedness is crucial for reducing the impact of flooding.