Flood disaster looms, FG warns 17 states

Nigeria faces a looming flood disaster as the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) issued a seven-day advisory warning of a medium flood risk in 17 states. The alert, effective from July 21 to July 27, follows a significant rise in water levels at critical river monitoring stations across the country.

Director-General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, identified Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara as the states most vulnerable. He noted that river levels at Saminaka, Waya Dam, and Amber have surpassed warning thresholds, putting nearby communities at risk of localized flooding. Bauchi state appears to have the highest exposure, with over 1,800 communities, along with numerous schools, health facilities, and markets, identified as vulnerable.

NIHSA is urging state and local authorities, as well as residents in flood-prone areas, to take immediate precautionary measures. Recommendations include relocating residents, livestock, and valuables from floodplains to safer locations. Emergency agencies are advised to pre-position essential supplies such as food, medical materials, and water treatment resources in at-risk areas. Community mobilization through early warning volunteers and local communication channels is also emphasized for timely dissemination of alerts.

Authorities are also called upon to clear blocked drains, culverts, and waterways to improve water flow and reduce the likelihood of flooding. Residents are cautioned against traversing flooded roads, bridges, or fast-flowing waterways. This advisory follows a similar warning last week for 14 states, underscoring the persistent threat of flooding across Nigeria.

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River levels at Saminaka on the Karam River, Waya Dam site on the Waya River and Amber on the Amber River had exceeded watch and warning thresholds.