The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a weather alert predicting a five-day period of heavy rainfall that could lead to severe flooding in 21 states and 123 locations across the country. The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) jointly released the warning, urging citizens to take necessary precautions to mitigate the impact.
According to the report, the rainfall is expected to commence shortly, with forecasts indicating that seven states will be severely affected. The states identified as high-risk zones for flooding include Lagos, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Niger, Adamawa, and Anambra. Residents in these states, particularly those in flood-prone areas, have been advised to remain vigilant and relocate to higher ground if necessary.
The agencies have also pinpointed specific locations within these states that are likely to experience significant flooding. Urban centers, low-lying areas, and riverine communities are particularly at risk. The government has called on local and state authorities to activate their emergency response plans and ensure that drainage systems are cleared to facilitate the free flow of water.
In their statement, the government highlighted the importance of community awareness and preparedness. “We urge all citizens to stay informed through official channels and follow safety guidelines to protect lives and properties. It is crucial for residents, especially in the identified high-risk areas, to adhere strictly to warnings and evacuate when necessary,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been put on high alert, ready to deploy resources and personnel to the affected areas to provide immediate relief and support to those impacted by the flooding. The government also emphasized the need for state and local emergency services to collaborate with NEMA to ensure a coordinated response.
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The Ministry of Environment has called on the public to avoid dumping refuse in waterways and ensure that water channels remain unobstructed to minimize the risk of flooding. Additionally, the government is advising people to prepare emergency kits, secure important documents, and have a plan in place in case of evacuation.
The predicted flooding comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with climate change-induced weather patterns, which have led to frequent and severe flooding in recent years. Experts have stressed the need for more robust flood management systems and climate adaptation strategies to reduce the impact of such natural disasters.
The government’s proactive warning aims to prevent loss of life and minimize damage to property, but the effectiveness will depend largely on the responsiveness and cooperation of both the authorities and the public in the coming days.
