By Grace Samuel
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued a stern caution to residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to heed early warnings and take proactive measures to avert potential disasters as the rainy season approaches.
Mr. Mohammed Sabo, the acting Director-General of FEMA, emphasized the importance of preparedness in a statement released in Abuja.
This advisory follows the recent unveiling of the 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the onset of the first rainfall experienced in the FCT on Thursday morning.
Sabo urged FCT residents to prioritize the clearance of blocked drainages and clogged gutters to ensure unhindered water flow during the rainy season.
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He underscored the looming threat of potential disasters arising from severe storms typical of the season and advised residents residing near water channels to consider relocating for their safety.
Assuring residents of FEMA’s commitment to continual education on preparedness, response, and recovery measures for heavy rainfall, Sabo encouraged individuals to utilize the 112 emergency hotline in times of crisis.
According to forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, the commencement of the 2024 rainy season may experience a delay in the North Central states of Nigeria.
Despite projections indicating a May-to-November rainy season period in the FCT across all six Area Councils, certain areas of the territory experienced an early onset of rainfall on Thursday morning.
Reports indicate that residents of Kubwa, Bwari Area Council, Garki in Abuja Municipal Area Council, Dutse, Zuba, Bwari, Gwagwalada, and Mararaba were surprised by a light rain shower devoid of lightning, heavy winds, or thunderstorms.
The rainfall, lasting approximately 25 minutes, commenced around 12:30 a.m. and concluded by 12:55 a.m., eliciting varied reactions from residents to the unexpected weather phenomenon.
