NEMA warns of impending flood in Niger

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised residents of Niger State, especially those living in riverine communities, to start moving to higher plains.

The Head, Minna Operations Office, Zainab Sa’idu, gave the advice, yesterday, via a statement in Minna. She said it was expedient on the people from riverine communities to start moving to higher grounds because consistent rainfall would increase water levels of different rivers across the state.

Noting that the call became necessary following the 2022 Seasonal Climate Prediction that forecast normal to above-normal amount of rainfall across the country, he added: “This prediction is already playing out in Niger State, as there has been consistent rainfall in recent weeks after the brief dry spell.

“It is expected that the phenomenon will reduce the absorption capacity of the soil, leading to mass run-off water on the soil surface. Drainages should be cleared for water to flow freely without affecting buildings.”

She stated that the increase in water levels would lead to flooding of houses, structures and farmlands in communities situated along river banks.

According to her, the 2022 climate prediction length of the growing season in Niger is forecast to be longer in the southern part of the state, lasting for about 182 days in Agaie and Lapai local councils.

The length of season for Rafi, Shiroro and Munya, she added, would be from 154 to 163 days, while Rijau would likely have less than 140 days, adding that the rainfall in the southern part, particularly in Agaie and Lapai, would be 1,460mm.

Sai’du said that the predicted rainfall for Munya, Wushishi, Mashegu, Bosso, Chanchaga and Paikoro would likely be from 1260mm to 1,360mm, while Rijau in thenorthern part would experience below 1,100mm.

She called on farmers in the areas to be guided by the statistics to avoid loss of wealth and livelihoods, assuring that NEMA would continue to sensitise people on the risk around them to save live and property.