Abuja braces for heavy rainfall, FEMD on high alert

The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), has placed its Search and Rescue Team on alert following heavy rainfall being expected in parts of FCT that may lead to flood.

The acting Director-General of the department, Mrs Florence Wenegieme, stated this in a statement in Abuja on Monday.

Wenegieme said that the action followed the flood prediction by the National Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS) Centre, Federal Ministry of Environment, Abuja.

She said that the FEWS Centre had predicted a likelihood of heavy rainfall from July 21 to July 25, which may lead to flooding in Mabushi District and Kurudu area of the FCT.

She called on the Facility Maintenance and Management Department to desilt blocked manholes in Mabushi District to ensure free flow of water in the event of heavy rain.

Wenegieme also urged the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, to clear all blocked drainages and evacuate waste in the district to mitigate the impact of flooding.

The acting D-G also called on the Satellite Towns Development Department, to clear all blocked drainages in Kurudu and also evacuate solid waste, dumped indiscriminately in the area.

“Residents should also heed to FEMD early warnings to ensure the safety of lives and property and always use the 112 emergency toll-free number in the event of a disaster,” she added.