FG issues flood alert for 32 states, 832 communities

The Federal Government has issued fresh flood alert to 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT as well as 198 local governments across the country.

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, spoke, warning of very high flood risks between August 7 and August 21.

The alert, with reference No: 32-25-003-06, was signed by the agency's Director General, Mr. Umar Ibrahim Thursday, following rising river levels and persistent rainfall across the country.

According to NIHSA , over 100 communities and major transportation routes would experience severe disruptions during the forecast period.

The affected states include; Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, FCT and Gombe.

They also, include Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, and Nasarawa.

Others include Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.

According to the agency, one 198 LGAs and 832 communities fall within the projected flood impact zone.

“Possible disruption of major transportation routes is anticipated

 NIHSA further cited data from its colour-coded flood risk map and urged emergency management stakeholders to activate their response protocols and advised that evacuation plans be put in place for communities at risk.

NIHSA also encouraged residents and stakeholders to follow its weekly state-level and community-specific forecasts, and to stay informed via the NIHSA flood dashboard and official social media platforms, adding that ongoing efforts to mitigate the growing impact of seasonal flooding, which continues to displace thousands and damage infrastructure annually.