Flood: NEMA raises alarm over rising water level

Worried by the recent flood that impacted many communities across some states and rising water levels in River Benue and River Niger, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) advised states in the central and southern parts to prepare ahead of potential floods that may soon affect communities downstream.

The red alert was contained in a statement titled ‘Flood Alert: States in Central and Southern Nigeria to Prepare’, issued by the agency’s Head of Press Unit, Mr Manzo Ezekiel.

According to him, “The advice has become imperative to activate the state, local government authorities, and communities to take necessary actions to mitigate against the risk of flooding and avoid the scale of losses recorded so far in areas that have been impacted, including loss of lives, displacement of communities, and significant damage to property and infrastructure.

“Specifically, the states that are highly probable to the hazard in the next few weeks to come are Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa.

“Some of the actions to be taken include immediate clearing of blocked drainages, constructing temporary flood barriers, and evacuating from flood plains to safe higher grounds.

“The Agency advises communities to stay informed through weather updates and flood warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). Residents are advised to avoid crossing flooded areas, relocate from flood-prone zones, and cooperate with local emergency services.

“NEMA is working closely with state emergency management agencies and other relevant stakeholders through the National Emergency Operations Centre situated in the agency’s headquarters to ensure that necessary support, including rescue and relief operations, is available to affected communities.”

In her remarks, NEMA’s Director-General, Mrs Zubaida Umar, emphasised the importance of early action and community vigilance, saying: “We urge all residents, especially in vulnerable areas, to heed our warnings and take immediate preventive measures to safeguard lives and property. Preparedness is key in reducing the impact of flooding.”

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