THE timely release of the 2013 Seasonal Rainfall Prediction (SRP) by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) is a wake-up call on governments at all levels to take proactive measures to prepare for the rains in order to avert the monumental disasters recorded last year.
Early warning and early preparation are crucial to averting disaster. Nigerians should not be caught unawares this year again.
Prior to last year’s devastating floods, NIMET had made similar predictions that were unheeded. The country was overwhelmed by an unprecedented flooding that submerged 20 of the 36 states of the federation. All the states bordering the Rivers Niger and Benue trough, as well as the coastal areas were affected. Some 363 people reportedly perished while over two million people were displaced. Homes, farmlands and infrastructure were washed away. The country suffered billions of naira worth of damage.
Amidst the pains and anguish, thousands of traumatised victims who lost virtually all their possessions were boarded into ill-equipped camps, some in sub-human conditions. Lack of water, food, clothing, medication and sanitation facilities made life in the camps hellish. Frustration, anger and despair reigned in the camps.
It was obvious from reports across the camps that the authorities were unprepared.
That explained the total mismanagement of the situation even after the Federal Government intervened with N17.6 billion as direct financial assistance to the affected states and some agencies involved in disaster management. Once again, the stage is set for another season and everything should be done to mitigate the impact.
According to the Director General (DG) of NIMET, Anthony Anuforo, the prediction is based on the prevalent conditions that characterised this year’s rainfall, which might lead to more floods in some parts of the country. He identified Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara and other neighbouring states as prime targets for this year’s floods. He also made these disclosures recently in Abuja during the 2013 SRP organised by the agency.
The northeastern states might experience huge rainfall amounting to about 420mm within 120 days while the south should expect 2,900 mm of rain within 290 days. These figures are quite high.
For example, for the northeast, which record an annual rainfall of about 650mm, a 420mm of rain in 120 days means that two-third of the region’s annual rainfall will occur in just four months! Similarly, southern Nigeria, which records a mean annual rainfall ranging from 2000mm to 2500mm is predicted to receive 2,900mm in 10 months this year.
And for the central parts of the country covering parts of Yobe State, northern Cross River and parts of the Southwest, longer than normal length of rainy season is expected. What these mean is that the country should be fully prepared to avoid another disaster. The dredging of the inland waterways is a long-term measure that should be carried out systematically over time as part of the lasting solution.
Each state should map out a clear-cut strategy on how to handle this year’s flood. Last-minute fire brigade approach won’t help. Refugee camps should be ready. Appropriate funds should be set aside for food and medication to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians in the event of an emergency.
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