Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been placed on high flood alert following a warning by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) that parts of the territory face an increased risk of flooding over the next seven days.
According to an official statement signed by Nkechi Isa, Head of Public Affairs, the alert was issued after the Izom gauge on the Gurara River exceeded the established warning threshold, indicating a heightened likelihood of flooding in vulnerable communities within the FCT.
The statement noted that monitoring stations operated by NIHSA have recorded elevated river levels, a development that could trigger flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas if heavy rainfall persists.
Residents living on flood plains have been urged to relocate to higher ground as a precautionary measure. The agency also advised members of the public to avoid attempting to cross flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water, whether on foot or by vehicle, warning that such actions could be life-threatening.
The FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD) also called on residents and relevant authorities to ensure drainage channels are cleared of debris and to remove structures obstructing natural waterways or built on flood plains to reduce the impact of possible flooding.
FEMD further urged residents to promptly report emergencies by calling the toll-free emergency number, 112, to facilitate a swift response to flood-related incidents.
