Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency issues flood alert for 17 states
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency NIHSA has issued a seven-day flood advisory, warning of a medium flood risk in 17 states between July 21 and July 27. NIHSA Director-General, Umar Mohammed, stated that rising water levels at key river monitoring stations have increased the likelihood of localised flooding along river channels and floodplains. The affected states include Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara. River levels at Saminaka on the Karam River, Waya Dam site on the Waya River, and Amber on the Amber River have exceeded watch and warning thresholds. Sixteen gauging stations nationwide are recording elevated river levels, putting nearby communities at risk. Mohammed urged state governments, local authorities, and residents of flood-prone communities to take immediate precautionary measures. Bauchi has the highest exposure, with 1,841 communities, 145 schools, 101 health facilities, and eight markets identified as vulnerable. Vulnerable communities and public facilities were also identified in Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau, and Benue states. Mohammed called on the National Emergency Management Agency, State Emergency Management Agencies, local governments, and community leaders to activate emergency response plans, recommending the relocation of residents, livestock, and valuables from floodplains. He also advised emergency agencies to pre-position food, medical supplies, and w
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