NIHSA warns 14 states of flood risk

Nigeria faces a heightened risk of flooding as the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a flood advisory for 14 states. The warning, effective from July 14 to July 20, anticipates a medium flood risk, particularly along major river channels.

Director-General of NIHSA, Mr. Umar Mohammed, stated that the advisory is based on the agency's latest hydrological forecast. This forecast identifies 16 monitoring stations as high-risk locations. The affected states include Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Kaduna, Lagos, Niger, and Plateau. Several local government areas and communities within these states, including essential facilities like schools, health centers, and markets, could be impacted if precautionary measures are not implemented.

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The forecast was intended to support disaster preparedness, response planning and risk reduction by governments and relevant agencies.

The Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) serves as a crucial tool for predicting flood scenarios during the rainy season. Mohammed emphasized that the forecast aims to bolster disaster preparedness, response planning, and risk reduction efforts by government bodies and relevant agencies. He urged state governments, emergency management agencies, and communities to enhance their early warning systems, evacuation plans, and public awareness campaigns.

Critical locations identified on the projected flood path include Saminaka on the Karam River, the Waya Dam site on the Waya River, and Amber on the Amber River. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to relocate to safer grounds, clear drainage channels, avoid flooded roads, and stay informed about NIHSA's forecasts. Emergency management agencies are also called upon to pre-position relief materials and activate community-based early warning systems to minimize the impact of potential flooding.

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It is best you are being comfortable and enjoying the moment.