A forecast from the Federal Government warns of heavy rainfall in the upcoming days, with high risk of flooding in approximately 48 towns spanning 13 states, starting from September 13 to September 17, 2023.
Predictions are warning that rising water levels in the River Benue and River Niger might reach communities all the way to Bayelsa State. In light of this, residents in these areas are encouraged to take preventive actions.
The government made this disclosure within the flood prediction report published by the National Flood Early Warning Systems Central Hub, which operates under the Federal Ministry of Environment.
The report indicates that the 13 states that could be affected are Kano, Kebbi, Katsina, Niger, Kwara, Zamfara, Bauchi, Taraba, Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Jigawa, and Gombe.
The report partly reads, ‘The following locations and their environs are likely to witness heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding within the period of prediction: 13th – 17th September 2023:
‘In Kano State: Sumaila, Kunchi; Kebbi State: Argungu; Katsina State: Bindawa, Jibia, Kaita, Katsina; Niger State: Kontagora, Mashegu, New Bussa; and Kwara State: Kosubosu.’
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As outlined in the report, Zamfara State might experience heavy rainfall and flooding in Kaura Namoda and Shinkafi, while Bauchi State could witness a similar situation in Bajoga, Darazo, Kirfi, Azare, Jama‘are, Itas, and Misau.
The report suggests that towns in Taraba State, such as Beli, Donga, Lau, Serti, Mutum-Biyu, and Yorro, could potentially be impacted. Similarly, in Borno State, Briyel, Biu, Dikwa, Kukawa, and Bama might also face unfavourable weather conditions.
In Adamawa State, Ganye, Mubi, Demsa, Jimeta, Mayo Belwa, Numan, Shelleng, and Song were listed, while towns that were named in Yobe State include Dapchi, Gashua, Geidam, Kanamma, Machina, and Potiskum,
During the review period, the report suggests that only Nafada in Gombe State might experience heavy rainfall that could potentially lead to flooding. Meanwhile, in Jigawa State, the towns of Dutse, Gumel, Gwaram
‘Also, due to the rise in the water level of River Benue and River Niger, communities along River Benue and River Niger up to Bayelsa State should kindly take precautionary measures,’ the report stated.
However, it’s important to note that the agency is keenly interested in receiving feedback from relevant stakeholders and representatives of state governments.
Earlier this week, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to controlling the flood risks associated with heavy rainfall and the recent release of water from dams and rivers
He encouraged Nigerians to consistently follow the recommendations of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency in order to reduce the impact of floods. He emphasised that the government is actively exploring ways to address the issue of excess flooding.