The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has advised Abuja residents to brace for a downpour on Sunday, and has kept its staff on high alert.
FEMA spokesperson Nkechi Isa issued the warning in a statement Saturday, citing the Nigeria Meteorological Agency’s (NiMET) prior forecast of heavy rain in Abuja and neighboring states.
“The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and states adjacent to it are expected to experience heavy to moderate rainfall tomorrow,” according to FEMA.
“NiMET impact-based weather forecast also anticipates low to moderate rainfall on Sunday 23rd, 2023 in parts of the FCT and its neighboring states,” it added.
“Reacting to the early warning, the Director General of the FCT Emergency Management Agency,(FEMA), Dr Abbas Garba Idriss has placed the Search and rescue team of the Agency on alert. Dr Idriss has also directed an update of the Agency’s flood contingency plans.
“He appealed to residents to heed the early warning and avoid driving or wading into a pool of water during the rains. Idriss also urged FCT residents to wait out the rains during heavy floods or use an alternative route.”
The spokeswoman quoted the FEMA chief as saying, “All blocked drains must be cleared, and people who live on water channels must relocate.”
