Two persons, including a security operative and an 18 year old teenager, have died after a heavy downpour triggered devastating flooding in parts of Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.
The tragedy was confirmed by the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, in a statement issued on Tuesday, saying the victims, Isa Haruna, 38, popularly known as Mallam Matari, and Abba Kyari, 18, drowned in the Pompomari area following torrential rainfall that inundated Malari, Pompomari and neighbouring communities.
The agency disclosed that its Search and Rescue Team, working alongside the Yobe State Fire Service, swung into action after receiving distress calls from residents but recovered the victims dead.
“Upon receiving distress calls, the Search and Rescue Team of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, in collaboration with the Yobe State Fire Service, responded promptly to the affected areas. Unfortunately, the victims were found dead,” the statement said.
According to SEMA, the bodies were evacuated to the Accident and Emergency Unit of the General Sani Abacha Specialist Hospital in Damaturu.
The agency expressed concern over the recurring loss of lives caused by flooding during the rainy season and urged residents, particularly those in low lying and flood prone communities, to exercise caution during heavy rainfall.
“As the rainy season continues, residents are strongly advised to exercise caution during heavy rainfall. Members of the public should avoid walking, playing or driving through flooded roads, drainage channels and waterways, as floodwaters can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear,” the agency warned.
SEMA also advised parents and guardians to keep children away from rivers, streams, culverts and floodwaters, noting that the ongoing school vacation could expose them to unnecessary risks.
“Parents and guardians should ensure that children are kept away from rivers, streams, culverts and floodwaters, particularly as schools are currently on vacation,” it added.
