READ THIS!! NIHSA Warns Of Imminent Flooding Along River Benue & Niger

NIHSA Warns Of Imminent Flooding Along River Benue & Niger

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued an urgent flood warning for communities located along the River Benue and River Niger. This warning comes in response to significant increases in water levels attributed to ongoing rainfall in the region. In an official statement released on Thursday, NIHSA’s Director General, Umar Mohammed, highlighted the urgency of the situation and urged residents living near the riverbanks to evacuate immediately.

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Mohammed emphasized that water levels in the River Benue have reached critical points, raising serious concerns for the safety of those residing in close proximity to the river. Data from key monitoring stations, including Lokoja, Umaisha, Makurdi, and Ibbi, indicates consistently high water levels, exceeding 9 meters between October 9 and October 15.

As the situation develops, authorities are closely monitoring the river levels and potential flood impacts. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and adhere to evacuation directives to ensure their safety during this critical time.

“The map shows critical flood-prone zones across Nigeria, particularly around stations along the River Benue and River Niger.

“Makurdi, in particular, has recorded dangerously high water levels, with Lokoja and other stations also nearing flood thresholds,” Mohammed stated.

The agency also warned that the management of the Kainji and Jebba Dams are closely monitoring and controlling water releases to prevent downstream flooding along the Niger.

Mohammed called for full cooperation with emergency response agencies and advised citizens to move to safer areas to avoid the worsening effects of the floods as rainfall continues.

He emphasised the need for collective efforts to build resilience against flooding, which had become an annual challenge for many communities in Nigeria.