The Federal Government has issued a flood alert predicting five days of rainfall from September 4-8, 2024, that may lead to flooding in 21 states and 123 locations across Nigeria.
The alert, issued by the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre of the Federal Ministry of Environment, lists Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa as the states most likely to be severely affected.
The alert specifically warns communities downstream of River Benue to take precautions due to rising water levels.
The government has identified multiple locations in states including Adamawa, Benue, Bauchi, Kogi, Borno, Nasarawa, Gombe, Kwara, Jigawa, Oyo, Kaduna, Edo, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Plateau, Niger, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara as high-risk areas for potential flooding.
In response, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised states in the central and southern regions to prepare for potential floods that may soon impact downstream communities.
NEMA’s recommendations include clearing blocked drainages, constructing temporary flood barriers, and evacuating residents from flood plains to higher grounds.
NEMA emphasized the need for state, local government authorities, and communities to take proactive measures to mitigate the risk of flooding and minimize potential losses, including lives, property, and infrastructure.
The agency urged residents to stay informed through updates from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Hydrological Services Agency, avoid crossing flooded areas, and cooperate with local emergency services.
NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, stressed the importance of early action and community vigilance, urging residents in vulnerable areas to heed the warnings and take preventive measures to safeguard lives and property.
“Preparedness is key in reducing the impact of flooding,” Umar stated, highlighting the agency’s commitment to coordinating with state emergency management and other stakeholders through the National Emergency Operations Centre to provide necessary support, including rescue and relief operations, to affected communities.