The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has said that the flood affected 225 communities following heavy and prolonged downpours across 31 local government areas of Kano and Jigawa States from July to date.
Dr Nuradeen Abdullahi, NEMA Territorial Coordinator, Kano/Jigawa Territorial Office, made the disclosure in a statement in Kano on Saturday.
He said the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on Aug.16, predicted above-normal rainfall in 19 states between August and September including Kano/Jigawa and called on the affected states to intensify mitigation, adaptation and response mechanisms.
The affected LGAs include Tudun Wada; Doguwa, Kibiya, Kiru, Gwale, Danbatta, Bagwai, Ajingi, Albasu, Shanono, Tsanyawa, Rimin Gado and Dawakin Kudu in Kano State.
While in Jigawa, the disaster affected Kafin hausa; Malam madori, Hadejia, Guri, Auyo, Birniwa, Jahun, Miga, Kiyawa, Birnin Kudu, Kaugama, Babura, Gwaram, Dutse and Kirikasamma LGAs.
Abdullahi said the flood destroyed many houses, infrastructure, farmlands, livestock, and properties and displaced hundreds of households.
“I urge authorities and relevant stakeholders to shift from a more reactive to the proactive role and map out clearer emergency preparedness plan,” he said.
He urged the state governments to embark on aggressive awareness campaigns for possible response activities especially in high-risk areas to mitigate further disaster.
The NEMA official further advised residents to adhere to early warning signals, and clear drains and canals to ease the flow of water.