Nigeria: Widespread disruptions due to flooding ongoing across much of the country as of Oct. 17

Event

Widespread disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across many parts of Nigeria as of Oct. 17. Authorities have reported that more than 600 flood-related fatalities have occurred across the country since February. More than 1.3 million people have been displaced and around 2.5 million have been affected by the flooding. More than 200,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged by the floods, which have affected 27 of the country's 36 states. Whilst northern parts of the country were the most impacted in early summer, the flooding has now spread across many southern states. In Bayelsa State around 300 communities have been either totally or partially submerged and around 700,000 people have been either affected or displaced. The floods have destroyed tens of thousands of hectares of crops and tens of thousands of people are in need of emergency accommodation and other assistance. The damage caused to crops and pools of stagnant floodwaters will likely also exacerbate the food insecurity and health challenges ongoing across many areas.

Authorities have warned that further flooding is likely in parts of Anambra, Delta, Cross River, Rivers, and Bayelsa states during the remainder of the rainy season through the end of November. Local officials in these regions have been advised to evacuate those living along rivers and other at-risk areas.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages. Avoid stagnant bodies of water.