Expect heavy rainfall in FCT, neighbouring states on Sunday – FEMA
Story from Christine TOBECHUKWU
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has incontinently placed its emergency response team on high alert in a bid to moderate an anticipated heavy rainfall on Sunday 23rd July,2023.
The Director-General of the Agency, Dr Abbas Idriss, made this declaration in a statement signed by the agency’s Head of Public Affairs, Ms Nkechi Isah, in Abuja on Friday 21st July,2023.
Dr Idriss stated that a weather forecast by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET), had made succinct indication that the FCT and its neighbouring states would experience heavy to moderate rainfall on Sunday 23rd July,2023.
He further added that the forecast also predicted moderate to heavy rainfall in some parts of Katsina, Kano, Bauchi, Plateau and Taraba states.
Dr Idriss also stated that NiMET had given warnings of possible flash floods, riverine flooding, strong winds, and soil erosion. As well as thunder and lightning, due to the anticipated heavy downpour.
“The forecast also anticipates displacement of people due to floods, outbreak of water-borne diseases and damages to infrastructure,” he said.
To ensure a quick and effective emergency response, Dr Idriss stated that the agency had placed its search and rescue team on high alert and is ready to help mitigate the effects of the downfall.
The DG stated that he had equally given directives for an update on the agency’s flood contingency plans put in place to ensure maximum results.
He however, appealed to residents to heed to the early warning and avoid driving or wading into a pool of water during the rains.
The DG also stated that all blocked drains should be cleared, and advised people who reside on water channels to relocate.
He also advised residents to always dial the 112 emergency toll-free number provided in the cause of an emergency. He said this would enable FEMA to respond timely to the situation.