A heavy downpour in the early hours of Friday submerged several areas in Potiskum, Yobe State, displacing hundreds of residents.

The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) listed the affected areas as Old Prison, Filin Mashe, Unguwar Makafi, Unguwar Jaje Bakin Kwari, Afghanistan, Tsangaya, Karofi, Bayan Garejin Dan Juma, Jigawa Bayan, Makarahuta, and Tandari.

SEMA’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Goje, confirmed that the agency received an emergency alert and swiftly deployed field teams for rapid assessment and intervention.

While no loss of life has been reported, Goje said, “The detailed assessment is ongoing, and the government will ensure that life-saving support, protection, and immediate relief are provided to all affected persons.”

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has directed SEMA to provide urgent relief to the affected communities, reiterating his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

He urged residents to remain vigilant during the rainy season and promptly report emergencies to the authorities.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had earlier forecast heavy rainfall in parts of Yobe, warning of potential flash flooding, riverine flooding, and soil erosion.

Residents were advised to take precautions to minimise the impact.

The current weather forecast for Potiskum indicates thunderstorms with a high of 79°F and a 100% chance of rain.

Government and emergency services say they are working to mitigate the flood’s effects and support those affected.