FG Issues Fresh Flood Alert for 24 States, FCT

The Federal Government has issued a fresh flood warning covering vulnerable communities across 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory amid forecasts of heavy rainfall, rising river levels and increased surface runoff.

The alert, issued by the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre under the Federal Ministry of Environment, covers the period from September 27 to October 10.

Authorities said the warning was based on forecasts indicating saturated soil conditions, rising water levels and the potential for increased runoff, which could heighten flood risks in vulnerable locations.

States with communities classified under the critical-risk category include Imo, Abia, Rivers, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Delta, among others.

The warning specifically identified cities including Owerri, Aba and Port Harcourt as areas where residents should remain alert to possible flooding.

Riverine and coastal communities in parts of Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Cross River and Akwa Ibom were also listed among locations facing critical flood risks.

Residents in areas under critical flood watch have been advised to identify evacuation routes, protect vulnerable members of their communities and secure essential belongings ahead of possible flooding.

The Federal Government also warned residents against settling, trading, parking vehicles or storing goods on floodplains, wetlands, riverbanks and other low-lying drainage corridors.

State emergency management agencies and local authorities have been directed to strengthen surveillance of rivers, streams, culverts, bridges and drainage channels as rainfall and water levels continue to be monitored.

Residents have equally been advised not to walk or drive through moving floodwater and to comply with evacuation directives from authorised emergency agencies where necessary.

The latest warning is part of ongoing efforts to improve early preparedness as several parts of Nigeria remain vulnerable to flood-related emergencies.

Authorities stressed that early warnings are intended to give residents and emergency agencies time to take preventive measures before flooding escalates into a major disaster.