Flash floods hit three Yobe LGs, render many families homeless

The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has said heavy rainfall and flash flooding have affected several communities across Damaturu, Nguru, Machina and Bursari Local Government Areas of the state.

In a flash flood incident report issued on Sunday, SEMA said it received multiple distress reports from community stakeholders, security agencies and LGA authorities following torrential downpours that caused sudden flash floods in the affected areas.

According to the report, communities so far verified by SEMA include Moduri, Abbari Sabon Kwalta, Malari Sabon Kwalta, Pompomari, Sumsumma, Nayinawa and surrounding areas in Damaturu LGA; as well as New Side, Best Center, Balanguwa Road and several communities across nine wards in Nguru LGA.

“Turbangini and Dinani/Lawanti Ward (Bursari LGA),  Alhaji Madi Street, Hausari and Machina town (Machina LGA) were affected by the flash floods,” the agency said.

SEMA noted that the list reflects only locations formally reported and verified, adding that more communities may be confirmed as assessments progress.

“Preliminary field observations indicate that numerous residential structures sustained varying levels of damage.

“The exact number of affected households, displaced persons and injuries is still being verified,” it said.

Yobe SEMA assured that detailed findings would be released promptly to guide timely intervention and recovery support.

The agency, however, urged residents to observe critical safety measures during the rainy season, including remaining indoors in structurally sound buildings, avoiding unnecessary travel, and staying away from floodplains, riverbanks, drainage channels and low-lying areas.