Nigeria Warns of High Riverine Flooding in 27 States

Nigeria faces a significant risk of widespread riverine flooding in the coming week, according to the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA). The agency has issued a stern warning for 27 states, including Niger, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory, anticipating high river levels that could lead to dangerous overflows.

NiHSA's Director-General, Arc. Umar Mohammed, highlighted that communities situated along floodplains should prepare for potential evacuation. The forecast indicates that 53 monitoring stations are at risk, potentially affecting 186 communities. This includes critical infrastructure like 96 schools, 35 health centers, 14 markets, and 14 religious sites, along with vast areas of farmland.

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High riverine flood risk forecast for the next seven days across Niger, Kaduna and 25 other states. Rising river stages are expected to cause flooding.

Mohammed urged state governments and emergency agencies to activate early warning systems and implement precautionary measures. Residents are advised against crossing flooded roads or bridges and to avoid construction in floodplain areas. The agency also recommended clearing drainage channels, relocating people and livestock to safer locations, and pre-positioning relief materials and emergency shelters.

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Communities on the floodplain should prepare to move to higher ground.