The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has issued a stark warning to Nigerian states to prepare for intensified flooding expected between August and October 2024. The agency’s alert comes as flooding has already impacted about 52 local government areas across 20 states this year.
During a national emergency coordination forum meeting held yesterday in Abuja, NEMA’s Director General, Zubaida Umar, highlighted the agency’s predictions for a significant rise in flood events over the coming months. Based on forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), between 31 and 33 states are anticipated to experience flooding between August and October.
Umar emphasized the urgency of proactive measures, advising state governments to relocate residents from flood-prone areas to safer locations. This precautionary step aims to mitigate the impact on communities vulnerable to the severe flooding expected in the latter part of the year.
So far, the floods have claimed the lives of three individuals in communities that had received safety instructions but failed to adhere to them. In response to the ongoing crisis, the governments of Kebbi and Sokoto states have successfully moved displaced residents to higher ground, demonstrating effective regional disaster management.
Umar stressed the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and following NEMA’s recommendations to prevent further loss of life and property. “Based on the predictions by both NiMet and NIHSA, there will be an increase in floods from the month of August all the way to October. We are expecting between 31 to 33 states to be flooded,” she said.
NEMA’s alert underscores the critical need for comprehensive flood preparedness and response strategies at the state and local government levels. Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions to safeguard their lives and property.
The agency is also calling for enhanced coordination among emergency services, local authorities, and communities to ensure an effective response to the anticipated flood events. As the risk of flooding escalates, NEMA’s guidance and state governments’ preparedness will be crucial in managing and mitigating the impact of this seasonal hazard.
With the heightened risk of flooding, continued vigilance and proactive measures will be essential for protecting affected populations. NEMA and other relevant agencies will be closely monitoring the situation and providing updates as needed to ensure that communities are well-prepared for the upcoming flood season.
