The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Yola Operations Office has warned of heightened flood risk following a continued rise in water levels along the Benue River, based on readings taken at 7:00 am today, Tuesday, 12 August 2025.
Monitoring at Wuro Bokki recorded a gauge height of 6.75 metres, exceeding the First Alarm threshold by 0.25 metres, while Jimeta measured 5.92 metres, 0.42 metres above the First Alarm and just 8 centimetres short of the Second Alarm level. Both stations showed a rising trend, with Jimeta’s discharge now above 3,000 cubic metres per second, indicating increased upstream inflows and recent rainfall impact.
As part of flood anticipation measures, a NEMA Search and Rescue team led by the Head of NEMA Yola Operations Office, Mr. Ladan Ayuba, in collaboration with the Marine Police Command, visited the Bakin Kogi area in Yola North Local Government Area this morning.
The team observed localized overbank flows and inundation of low-lying farmlands in riparian settlements, confirming early signs of flooding in some vulnerable locations. These developments point to a growing likelihood of flood escalation if the current trend continues over the next 24 to 48 hours.
NEMA has advised residents in low lying communities along the river to intensify relocation preparations, secure property and farm produce, and avoid flooded areas for their safety. Local authorities have been urged to activate readiness protocols ahead of a possible shift to the Second Alarm stage.
The agency stressed that the current figures are not just statistics but vital early warnings, urging swift and coordinated action to safeguard lives and livelihoods.
12th August 2025
