Floods and Storms Hit Seven Areas in Taraba State

The Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (TSEMA) has reported serious damage from floods, windstorms, and other disasters in seven local government areas of the state.

The agency’s Executive Secretary, Echuseh Audu, shared this news on Friday. She also updated the public on emergency help for affected communities. This includes support for people displaced by communal clashes in nearby Adamawa State who are now seeking refuge in Taraba.

Ms Audu explained that heavy rainfall has caused major destruction in Donga, Gassol, Bali, Ussa, Kurmi, Karim Lamido, and Sardauna local government areas. This flooding threatens the livelihoods of the residents and has displaced some households.

She mentioned that flooding from major rivers in Gassol has wrecked buildings and covered large areas of farmland. Bali has also seen significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.

Fikyu Ward in Ussa Local Government Area faced damage to homes and major agricultural losses. In Kurmi, windstorms, flooding, and fire have led to the destruction of many houses. Several structures were also damaged in Karim Lamido.

The executive secretary noted that Akate and Gyeta Aure wards in Donga experienced considerable losses, affecting homes, farmlands, and infrastructure. Kakara in Sardauna was another area hit hard, with houses and farmlands submerged, forcing people to leave their homes.

Ms Audu advised residents living in flood-prone, low-lying, and riverside areas to move to safer, higher ground or designated temporary camps. This will help reduce the risk of injuries and more property damage.

She praised the Taraba State Government, led by Governor Agbu Kefas, for helping disaster victims. She promised that the agency will keep responding to the needs of affected communities.