Flooding: Prepare ahead, NEMA tell states

Post created on 11:47 am

NEMA, the National Emergency Management Agency has advised states in the central and southern parts of the country to prepare ahead of potential floods that may soon affect communities downstream.

NEMA gave the advice in a press statement signed by its Head of Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel, on Thursday.

The flood alert advise stated, “Following the recent flood that impacted many communities across some states and rising water levels in River Benue and River Niger, NEMA advises states in the central and southern parts to prepare ahead of potential floods that may soon affect communities downstream.

“The advice has become imperative to activate the state, local government authorities and communities to take necessary actions to mitigate against the risk of flooding and avoid the scale of losses recorded so far in areas that have been impacted, including loss of lives, displacement of communities, and significant damage to property and infrastructure.

“Specifically, the states that are highly probable to the hazard in the next few weeks to come are Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers and Bayelsa.

“Some of the actions to be taken include immediate clearing of blocked drainages, constructing temporary flood barriers and evacuating from flood plains to safe higher grounds.”

“Residents are advised to avoid crossing flooded areas, relocate from flood-prone zones, and cooperate with local emergency services.

“NEMA is working closely with state emergency management agencies and other relevant stakeholders through the National Emergency Operations Centre situated in the agency’s headquarters to ensure that necessary support, including rescue and relief operations are available to affected communities,” it added.

Zubaida Umar ,the Director-General of NEMA emphasised the importance of early action and community vigilance.

She stated, “We urge all residents, especially in vulnerable areas, to heed our warnings and take immediate preventive measures to safeguard lives and property. Preparedness is key in reducing the impact of flooding.”

(PUNCH)