Between the years 2011–2020, Nigeria recorded about 1,187 deaths connected to flooding. The most recent flood that took place in Jigawa claimed over 50 lives and displaced hundreds of people.
Flooding is the most common and often the most destructive type of natural disaster. Although floods are often associated with overflowing rivers and sea swells accompanying tropical storms, they can happen in areas far from a body of water. Cities can become flooded during periods of heavy rain. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, preparing for a flood should be part of your preparedness plan. People in certain states like Lagos, Yobe, Jigawa and Abuja are particularly vulnerable. Read our suggestions on how to prepare for a flood below.
Before a Flood
- Know your flood risk.
- Make a flood emergency plan.
- Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans if any. Know where to go and how to get there if you need to get to higher ground, the highest level of a building, or to evacuate.
- Raise furnaces, water heaters and electrical components above the base flood elevation level. Install a sump pump system to drain water away from your home.
- Seal basement walls to prevent water seepage.
- Install back-flow valves or standpipes on sewer lines to prevent water from backing up into the home.
During a Flood
- Stay tuned to radio, TV or the internet for weather updates, emergency instructions, or evacuation orders.
- If time permits, move furniture and other items to upper floors.
- Be prepared to turn off utilities if instructed to do so.
- Be prepared to evacuate if instructed to do so.
- In the case of flash flooding, do not wait for instructions. Move immediately to higher ground.
- Do not move through moving water if at all possible. Use a stick to insure the ground is firm.
- Do not drive in flooded areas. Vehicles can quickly be swept away.
- Avoid downed power lines.
After a Flood
- Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
- Clean and disinfect anything that has come in contact with flood water.
- Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and watch out for debris. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways.
- Do not attempt to drive through areas that are still flooded.
- Avoid standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
