After Heavy Rainfall, Taraba Agency Assesses Flooded Areas In Jalingo

Following a heavy downpour that triggered widespread flooding in the early hours of Saturday, the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has conducted a rapid post-flood assessment in parts of Jalingo, the state capital.

The assessment, ordered by the executive secretary of the agency, Dr Echuseh Audu, saw a team of officials deployed to evaluate the extent of damages and to identify vulnerable areas for immediate action.

The team, led by the director of Administration, Mr. Sani Maisukwati, and director of Technical Services, Mr. Bakari Kwanchi, inspected affected communities including Nasarawo Kwalbati, Tecnobat, Green Beach, and the Mayo Dassa axis among others.

Residents in the affected areas reported that the overnight rainfall submerged homes, cut off roads, and destroyed farmlands, and generally disrupted movement and livelihoods

Speaking during the inspection, Mr. Maisukwati, said the exercise was aimed at assessing structural damage, which will enable them to develop strategies that will reduce the impact of flooding in the future.

He noted that flooding remains a recurring challenge in the state, and stressed the need for proactive measures to protect lives and property.

“We are assessing the situation on ground and identifying areas of vulnerability to guide intervention efforts in the future,” he said.

Mr. Maisukwati urged residents to clear blocked drainage channels and waterways to ensure free flow of water, and advised the public to avoid flood-prone areas and to report emergencies through designated channels.

He said findings from the assessment would determine the distribution of relief materials and other forms of support to affected communities.

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to mitigating the impact of flooding during the rainy season through coordinated response and community engagement.