The Federal Government has issued a warning of severe flooding in seven states, following predictions of heavy rainfall from September 4-8, 2024. The National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre, under the Ministry of Environment, released the forecast, identifying 21 states and 123 locations at risk, with Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa states expected to be the most affected.
The prediction also advises communities downstream of the River Benue to exercise caution due to rising water levels.
The Federal Government’s flood forecast lists the affected states as follows:
- Adamawa State (Mubi, Shelleng, Demsa, Numan)
- Benue State (Udoma, Makurdi, Otukpo)
- Bauchi State (Azare, Tafawa-Balewa)
- Kogi State (Idah, Bassa, Ajaokuta)
- Nasarawa State, Kaduna State, and others.
In response to the flood alert, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) urged central and southern states to prepare for potential floods. NEMA advised clearing blocked drainages, constructing temporary flood barriers, and evacuating flood plains for safety.
Zubaida Umar, NEMA’s Director-General, emphasized the importance of early preventive measures, urging residents in flood-prone areas to stay informed and cooperate with local emergency services. Preparedness, she stressed, is crucial to minimizing the impact of the impending floods.
