Abuja, Oct. 17, 2024 (TheGavel) – The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a critical flood warning for communities located along the River Benue and River Niger, citing a significant rise in water levels due to continuous heavy rainfall.
In a statement released on Thursday, NIHSA’s Director General, Umar Mohammed, urged residents in vulnerable areas near riverbanks to immediately evacuate to safer grounds. He noted that water levels along the River Benue had reached dangerous heights, and communities are at high risk of flooding.
“Water gauge data from monitoring stations, including those in Lokoja, Umaisha, Makurdi, and Ibbi, have consistently shown alarmingly high levels, exceeding 9 meters between October 9 and October 15,” Mohammed explained. “These readings indicate critical flood-prone zones across Nigeria, particularly near these stations along the River Benue and River Niger.”
Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, was highlighted as particularly vulnerable, with its water levels already surpassing safe thresholds. Lokoja, a major flood hotspot where the two rivers converge, is also nearing flood levels.
NIHSA also revealed that the management teams at the Kainji and Jebba Dams are closely monitoring and regulating water releases to mitigate downstream flooding along the Niger River.
The agency called for cooperation with emergency response units and stressed the importance of residents taking proactive measures. “Citizens must heed these warnings and work with authorities to prevent loss of life and property,” Mohammed added.
The Director General further urged communities to build long-term resilience to combat the recurring flood threats that have become an annual challenge for many areas in Nigeria.
As rainfall continues, authorities are urging everyone in the affected regions to remain vigilant and comply with evacuation orders to avoid worsening impacts of the flood.(NAN)
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