The impact based weather forecast issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency,(Nimet), expects moderate to heavy rainfall over the FCT and Nasarawa State between the 16th to the 18th of August 2022.
To mitigate the anticipated heavy floods, the FCT Emergency Management Agency, (FEMA), has put its divers, rescuers and vanguard on red alert.
Reacting to the high impact based forecast by Nimet, the Director General of FEMA, Alhaji Abbas Idriss said, ” This is another early warning, that requires all relevant SDA’s to be on high alert and get prepared with a view to mitigating possible flooding in and around the FCT. The day in focus is Thursday”. He said.
As a result of the heavy rains expected in the next 96 hours, there are chances of flash flooding of roads, low lying settlements and river channels.
The moderate to heavy rains are expected to be accompanied by strong winds.
The Director General of FEMA therefore appeals to residents to avoid low lying terrains, not to drive through running water, clear water ways of debris, avoid standing under trees and unsecured structures during the rains.
Idriss also calls on Abuja residents to switch off electrical appliances before the rains and during the rains to avoid electric shock.
He also wants all hands on deck to avoid damages from whether related hazards and to watch out for more updates and Early Warning Messages.
The FEMA boss underscores the importance of dialing the 112 Toll Free emergency number in the event of any threat He also appreciate the sustainable Cordial working relationship with NiMet for their daily update on the weather condition in order to keep FCT safe from flooding and other weather related hazards.
By Fatima Abubakar.
