The Abia State Government has alerted residents to the risk of flooding following exceptionally heavy rainfall recorded across the State in recent weeks.
According to an advisory issued by State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, the heavy rains have overwhelmed some drainage channels and flood-mitigation structures, raising concerns about possible flooding in vulnerable communities.
The Government has therefore urged residents, particularly those living in flood-prone areas of Abia State, to take precautionary measures and move to higher ground where necessary.
Ogbonna highlighted the flood-prone areas in Abia State to include; Aba South, Aba North and Osisioma Local Government Areas, especially Umuocham, Ndiegoro and Umuagbai, Umuahia North Local Government Area, particularly Winners Way, Ihie, Trademore Housing Estate, Ubani and Ehimmiri Housing Estate.
The advisory advised residents living in flood-prone communities to prepare a “Getaway Bag” containing essential items that can be quickly carried during an emergency evacuation. The bag, according to the advisory, should contain: essential medicines, important certificates and documents, food and drinking water, clothing and other basic necessities
Furthermore, the advisory advised residents not to wait until floodwaters become dangerous before taking action and urged them to keep drains and waterways clear, avoid dumping refuse and other waste into drainage channels, avoid building on floodplains, and refrain from obstructing natural waterways.
“The Abia State Government remains committed to protecting lives and property and taking measures to mitigate the impact of flooding across the State. The Government is also working with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide relief and succour to affected flood victims”, the advisory concluded.
