Flood Predictions: FEMD Calls For Caution

By: Nkechi Isa

The National Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS) Center of the Federal Ministry of Environment has warned that some specific locations in the FCT are likely to witness heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flood between Thursday 6th June and Monday 10th of June, 2024.

According to the prediction, the locations include, Maitama , Wuse, Lugbe, Lokogoma and Garki in the Abuja Municipal Area Council.

The prediction added that the heavy rain is also expected to affect Kwali, Kuje, Yangoji and Abaji.

The forecast indicates that states contiguous to the FCT; Niger, Kaduna and Nasarawa are also likely to be affected by heavy rainfall and flash floods.

In Nasarawa State, Keffi, Toto, Wamba and Rukubi are expected to experience heavy floods.

Reacting to the early warning, the Ag. Director-General of the FCT Emergency Management Department, Florence Wenegieme, said the Search and Rescue Team of the Department have been placed on alert.

Wenegieme said that local divers have mobilized to vulnerable parts of the City, particularly Lokogoma and Lugbe areas.

The FEMD Ag. DG added that all the Local Emergency Management Committees, Volunteers, Vanguards and other key stakeholders have also been notified of the development.

She added that FEMD was keeping a close watch on happenings in neighbouring states.

Wenegieme appealed to residents, particularly motorists to avoid driving into a pool of water and to exercise caution as they go about their businesses.

She also called on residents residing along the flood plains to move to higher grounds, while urging that all blocked drainages should be cleared to ensure a free flow of water.

The DG appealed to residents to always use the 112 emergency toll free number in the event of any disaster.