Nigeria: Widespread disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Adamawa State as of Oct. 20

Event

Widespread disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across Adamawa State as of Oct. 20. Heavy rainfall has been ongoing in the region since Oct. 5 and has triggered severe flooding in many areas, especially following the release of water into the River Niger and River Benue basins from the Lago Dam in neighboring Cameroon from Oct. 7. As of Oct. 20, authorities have reported at least 275 flood-related fatalities across Adamawa. Flooding has impacted 14 out of the state's 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and displaced more than 51,000 people; most are temporarily accommodated in 11 emergency shelters across Yola South, Yola North, Lamude, Madagali, and Demsa LGAs. Flooding has damaged more than 120 homes, several roads, and various other infrastructure across the state.

Further severe weather and flooding are likely across the country during the remainder of the rainy season through the end of October. Further heavy rainfall may trigger additional flooding and associated disruptions, as well as hamper ongoing recovery efforts.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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.

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.

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. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.