Flash flood ravages Yobe communities, displaces 1,020 people

At least 1,020 people from 143 households have been displaced by a flash flood that hit Kukareta and surrounding communities in Damaturu Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The flood, triggered by recent heavy rainfall, affected six communities and an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, destroying 278 shelters.

The development was disclosed in a rapid assessment report conducted by the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), LGA officials and community stakeholders.

According to the report, signed by SEMA Director of Search and Rescue Operations, Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Jalo, no death or injury was recorded, while no public building was damaged in the incident.

Jalo said Lawanti Gana recorded 30 households, comprising 249 people, with 68 shelters damaged.

He said Bulama Gremari had 18 households, comprising 149 people, and 41 shelters damaged, while Kokari IDP Camp recorded 48 households, comprising 232 people, with 63 shelters affected.

Other affected communities include Fulatari, with 17 households and 141 people, where 38 shelters were damaged; Tsohuwar Kasuwa, with 16 households and 133 people, where 36 shelters were damaged; and Bulama Adam, with 14 households and 116 people, where 32 shelters were affected.

SEMA identified Kokari IDP Camp as the most severely affected location and advised residents to remain alert for further rainfall and move to higher ground if water levels rise.

The agency also warned residents to avoid flooded areas and contaminated waterways and urged them to boil or treat drinking water and wash their hands regularly to prevent water-borne diseases.

SEMA called on affected residents to promptly report additional damage, missing persons or urgent needs to the agency, LGA Emergency Desk or nearest officials.

It also urged residents to cooperate with assessment and relief teams as efforts continue to address the impact of the flood.

Jalo said the agency was coordinating with relevant ministries, departments and agencies as well as partners to provide immediate assistance, with priority given to the affected IDP camp and the most vulnerable families.