Nigeria: Dam failure causes flooding and prompts evacuations in parts of Maiduguri Sept. 10

Authorities have issued evacuation orders in parts of Maiduguri, Borno State, as of Sept. 10 due to flooding following the collapse of the Alau Dam. The dam failed after becoming overfilled with water due to recent heavy rains; the incident has submerged several areas of the city, including the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Monday Market, Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, and Bulabulin. Reports also indicate floodwaters have reached the area of the Shehu Sanda Kyarimi Zoo. Officials are instructing residents in low-lying areas to take immediate action and to adhere to evacuation routes.

Although there have as yet been no reports of casualties, authorities will likely release updated damage assessments, as well as numbers of any fatalities and injuries that may have occurred, over the coming days. Evacuation orders could be extended or expanded to encompass nearby localities. Significant travel disruptions are almost certain while the emergency response continues. Flooding could cause power outages, affect clean water sources, or disrupt telecommunication services in the affected area. Drinking water shortages are possible. Flood waters could carry dangerous aquatic wildlife, such as crocodiles and venomous snakes, into urban areas posing additional hazards to residents.