A devastating flash flood has struck Kukareta and surrounding communities in Damaturu Local Government Area of Yobe State, displacing 1,020 people from 143 households. The flood, triggered by heavy rainfall, has affected six communities and an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp. According to a rapid assessment report by the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), LGA officials, and community stakeholders, 278 shelters were destroyed in the incident.
The affected communities include Lawanti Gana, Bulama Gremari, Kokari IDP Camp, Fulatari, Tsohuwar Kasuwa, and Bulama Adam. Lawanti Gana recorded 30 households, comprising 249 people, with 68 shelters damaged. Bulama Gremari had 18 households, comprising 149 people, and 41 shelters damaged. The Kokari IDP Camp was the most severely affected location, with 48 households, comprising 232 people, and 63 shelters affected.
The flood did not result in any reported deaths or injuries, and no public building was damaged. SEMA Director of Search and Rescue Operations, Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Jalo, signed the report, which highlighted the extent of the damage. Fulatari had 17 households and 141 people affected, with 38 shelters damaged, while Tsohuwar Kasuwa had 16 households and 133 people, with 36 shelters damaged. Bulama Adam had 14 households and 116 people, with 32 shelters affected.
SEMA has advised residents to remain alert for further rainfall and move to higher ground if water levels rise. The agency has also warned residents to avoid flooded areas and contaminated waterways. Residents are urged to boil or treat drinking water and wash their hands regularly to prevent water-borne diseases. This is crucial in preventing the spread of diseases in the aftermath of the flood.
The agency has called on affected residents to promptly report additional damage, missing persons, or urgent needs to the agency, LGA Emergency Desk, or nearest officials. Residents are also urged to cooperate with assessment and relief teams as efforts continue to address the impact of the flood. SEMA is coordinating with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as partners, to provide immediate assistance.
Priority is being given to the affected IDP camp and the most vulnerable families. The flood has highlighted the need for preparedness and response measures to mitigate the impact of such disasters. The Yobe State government and relevant agencies are working to provide support to those affected. The incident has also underscored the importance of early warning systems and emergency preparedness.
The flash flood has had a significant impact on the affected communities, with many residents forced to leave their homes. SEMA and other stakeholders are working to provide relief and support to those affected. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for communities to be prepared for natural disasters and to take measures to mitigate their impact.
Key points
- 1,020 people displaced
- 278 shelters destroyed
- No deaths or injuries reported
