The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a warning about the planned gradual release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. This alert, announced by NIHSA Director General Umar Mohammed, informs 11 states to prepare for potential impacts.
According to Mohammed, the release of water from the Lagdo Dam will begin on September 17, 2024, at a rate of 100m³/s (8,640,000m³/day). The release rate may increase to 1000m³/s over the next week, depending on inflows from the Garoua River, which feeds the reservoir and contributes to the Benue River.
While major flooding is not expected, the states of Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Cross River, and Rivers should be vigilant and prepared. NIHSA assured that the water release will be managed to prevent exceeding the Benue River’s conveyance capacity and causing significant flooding downstream.
The dam’s water release will cease when there is a noticeable reduction in the reservoir’s flow. NIHSA emphasized that current flow levels in the River Benue are within warning levels, and major flooding is not anticipated.
Nevertheless, state and local governments are urged to enhance their preparedness and flood mitigation strategies. NIHSA will continue to monitor river levels and provide regular updates to mitigate flood risks.
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