Valencia, Spain Faces Severe Flooding as Heavy Rains Batter the Region

Panic heat in 11 states in Nigeria as release of water from Lagdo Dam begins 

Following torrential rains and the recent devastation of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, due to the collapse of Alau Dam, Nigerians in littoral states of the country are currently on edge over a possible re-enactment of similar tragedies in the wake of the reported release of excess water from Lagdo Dam in Cameroun.

By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor, Vincent Ujumadu; Samuel Oyadongha, Umar Yusuf, Peter Duru, Femi Bolaji , Boluwaji Obahopo, Abel Daniel, Emma Una, Ochuko Akuopha, Ike Uchechukwu, Daniel Abia & Emem Idio

Recall that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, had on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, issued a warning of possible severe flooding that will affect approximately 11 states across the country, releasing water from Lagdo Dam.

Urgent Flood Alert: Multiple States Brace for Impact from Lagdo Dam Release

As the potential for severe flooding looms, the National Inland Waterways and Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a critical warning for several states across Nigeria, including Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Rivers. The agency emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness among residents and government officials to mitigate the anticipated effects of increased river flow.

While recent flooding in Maiduguri and other areas of Borno State was not linked to the Lagdo Dam's water release, experts fear that the current situation could lead to even more catastrophic consequences than those experienced in 2022. Rising water levels in the Niger and Benue rivers are already a concern, with Cameroonian authorities reporting a gradual release of water from the Lagdo Dam.

Residents in vulnerable areas, such as Irri in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, have begun relocating to higher ground as water levels continue to rise. NIHSA's Director-General, Umar Muhammed, underscored the urgency of the situation, stating, “The water discharge is anticipated to progressively escalate to 1000m³/s over the next seven days, based on inflows from the upstream Garoua River, a significant tributary to the Benue River.”

The warning has caused widespread panic among communities in affected states, prompting local governments to expedite efforts to relocate residents and set up camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs). Ezekiel Manzo, spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), confirmed the ongoing release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam, further swelling the water levels of the Benue River.

As preparations continue, officials urge all residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, stay informed about weather updates, and heed evacuation orders to ensure their safety.