By Daniel Tyokua
The FCT Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has urged secretariats, Departments and Agencies in the territory to prepare for heavy rainfall in order to curb floods in the city and neighbouring states.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Public Relations Officer to the Agency, Nkechi Isa, said 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.
It said the preparation would help to mitigate the anticipated heavy floods.
According to the statement, the Director General of FEMA, Abbas Idriss said: ” This is another early warning, that requires all relevant SDAs 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.
“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, 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 called 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 Agency’s boss underscored 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.
