Anambra Deploys "Marking" System and Early Warning to Mitigate Flood Risks

The Anambra State Government says it is fully prepared to handle potential flood emergencies as heavy rainfall is forecast across Nigeria. This assurance was given by Dr. Felix Odimegwu, the state’s Commissioner for Environment, during a press briefing in Awka on Saturday.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has issued a three-day heavy rainfall forecast from Saturday to Monday, prompting proactive flood control measures in Anambra.

Flash Flood in Onitsha Triggers Public Concern

Public anxiety grew after a torrential downpour last Monday submerged parts of Zik’s Avenue and Iweka Road near Ochanja Market in Onitsha, disrupting business and displacing traders. The floods, worsened by blocked drainage systems, halted commercial and vehicular activities for several hours.

Dr. Odimegwu said, “We are working in collaboration with relevant ministries and local governments to raise awareness and prevent disaster across flood-prone areas. Our campaign follows NiMET’s seasonal prediction that Anambra is at high risk of flooding this year.”

Early Warning and Evacuation Strategy

The government has initiated weekly alerts to stakeholders, including local government chairpersons and community emergency teams. These alerts aim to help farmers harvest early, assist traders in relocating goods, and prepare residents before flooding escalates.

A color-coded water level tracker, known as the “Marking System”, has also been introduced:

• Green: Safe

• Yellow: Stay alert and prepare to evacuate

• Red: Imminent danger – evacuate immediately

The system is designed to offer real-time monitoring of river levels and inform evacuation decisions swiftly.

Soludo Administration’s Long-Term Flood Mitigation Plan

Since the devastating 2022 floods that affected nine local government areas, Governor Chukwuma Soludo has made flood prevention a top priority. Under his directive, Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim has led inter-agency flood response teams. These teams include representatives from the ministries of Environment, Health, Information, Education, as well as local authorities and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

“Our mission is clear,” Odimegwu said. “We aim to prevent man-made urban flooding, and if natural river flooding occurs, we ensure early evacuation and minimal impact.”

He urged residents to keep drainages clear, refrain from dumping waste in waterways, and heed official warnings.

Stay informed with TheHubWeb.com for weather alerts, community safety updates, and ongoing flood preparedness efforts across Nigeria.