The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a warning of heavy rainfall that could lead to flooding in about 48 towns across 13 states from September 13 to September 17, 2023. The government has advised residents in these areas to take precautionary measures.
The warning is based on a flood prediction report from the National Flood Early Warning Systems Central Hub of the Federal Ministry of Environment. The affected states include Kano, Kebbi, Katsina, Niger, Kwara, Zamfara, Bauchi, Taraba, Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Jigawa, and Gombe.
The report identifies specific towns and areas likely to witness heavy rainfall that may result in flooding during this period. These locations include Sumaila and Kunchi in Kano State, Argungu in Kebbi State, Bindawa, Jibia, Kaita, and Katsina in Katsina State, Kontagora, Mashegu, and New Bussa in Niger State, and Kosubosu in Kwara State.
Other towns mentioned in the report include Kaura Namoda and Shinkafi in Zamfara State, Bajoga, Darazo, Kirfi, Azare, Jama’are, Itas, and Misau in Bauchi State, as well as Beli, Donga, Lau, Serti, Mutum-Biyu, and Yorro in Taraba State.
In Borno State, towns like Briyel, Biu, Dikwa, Kukawa, and Bama are listed as potential flood-prone areas. Adamawa State towns include Ganye, Mubi, Demsa, Jimeta, Mayo Belwa, Numan, Shelleng, and Song. Yobe State towns mentioned are Dapchi, Gashua, Geidam, Kanamma, Machina, and Potiskum.
Only Nafada in Gombe State is mentioned as potentially experiencing heavy rainfall leading to flooding during this period. In Jigawa State, the towns of Dutse, Gumel, Gwaram, and Miga are included.
Additionally, the report mentions that due to the rising water levels of River Benue and River Niger, communities along these rivers up to Bayelsa State should also take precautionary measures.
The government is urging residents in these areas to be vigilant and to follow safety recommendations. Feedback from relevant stakeholders and state government representatives is welcomed, as efforts are being made to mitigate the impact of floods caused by heavy rainfall and water release from dams and rivers.