By Maduka Nweke
The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has raised the alarm of expectations of high rainfall and heavy flooding for 10 local governments area of Anambra State this year.
According to SEMA, the high flood risk areas in Anambra State that could be flood hit include Ogbaru, Ayamelum, Anambra East, Anambra West, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Awka North, Idemili South, Ekwusigo and Ihiala LGAs.
The statement signed by Mr. Paul Nwosu, the State’s Commissioner for Information stated that the 2023 seasonal rainfall prediction and annual flood outlook by Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and Nigerian Hydrological Service Agency (NIHSA) has shown that there will be high rainfall and heavy flooding across the country this year.
SEMA in its flood mitigation measures said that making concrete plans for timely harvesting and evacuation of farm produce and livestock to avoid losses is advisable. The statements maintained that one should not wait until the flood comes before harvesting.
The statement continued, “Make concrete plans to secure your household properties and essential belongings as much as possible before the flood actually sets in. Plan ahead to get your family as well as the aged, the sick, pregnant women, infants and children evacuated well on time to safety nets ( IDP CAMPS provided by the ANSG Government ) to avoid preventable loss of lives. Timely evacuation is key.
“De-silting of water channels should be done continuously as huge amount of silt is deposited in water channels after rainfall. People should stop constructing in water plains and across water channels. Clear gutters and drainages, do not dispose your thrash in gutters or drainage. Move to a higher ground before the flood becomes neck deep. If cut off from designated point, climb and stay on a tree or high platform.
“Keep a family disaster kit. A disaster kit is an assemblage of basic essentials (food, water, medications, touch lights, blankets, etc.) that will last a family a few days in event of flood. It is dangerous to wade or swim in flood waters due to submerged logs, stones and the presence of dangerous reptiles. Children should not attempt to recover any of their toys or belongings which perchance have fallen into the flood for it can drown them in the process.
“Do not drive in the flood because you can float and be carried away. Step out immediately and search for a higher ground. Never play in flood. Do not drink or eat any food contaminated by flood water. Before the onset of flood, deploy sand bags around buildings for flood defence. Avoid wet electrical equipment during flooding. Put off all electrical appliances to avoid electrocution,”he concluded.