The Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency has released a public warning alerting residents to increased flood threats in various parts of the state in the months ahead.
In a statement issued by the Executive Secretary, Hannafi Yakubu Fagam, the agency revealed that Jigawa is among the states expected to face notable flooding this year, with different levels of risk anticipated from April through November.
According to the notice, from April to June, local government areas (LGAs) including Guri, Kiri Kasamma, Hadejia, Auyo, Miga, Ringim, Kaugama, Kazaure, Dutse, Birnin Kudu, Gwaram, Gantsa and Malammadori are likely to be the most affected.
The risk is expected to worsen between July and September, spreading to more LGAs such as Taura and Birniwa. By October and November, the danger is projected to remain in areas like Ringim, Miga, Auyo, Hadejia, Guri and Malammadori.
SEMA advised residents, especially those in flood-prone communities, to take preventive actions to lessen the effects of possible disasters.
These measures include consistent clearing of drainage channels and waterways, avoiding dumping waste in drains, and staying away from constructing or living in flood-prone zones.
The agency also encouraged households to store essential items such as food, clean water, medications and lighting, while ensuring children stay away from floodwaters and open drains.
Residents were additionally urged to follow official weather updates, adhere to instructions from authorities, and prepare safe evacuation shelters in case water levels rise.
Electrical appliances should be turned off immediately if floodwater begins to enter homes, the statement added.
SEMA stressed the need for early reporting of warning signs to emergency authorities, noting that proactive measures remain crucial to reducing loss of lives and property.
“Communities must remain vigilant and take responsibility for their safety as the rainy season approaches,” the statement said.
