The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, has confirmed flash flooding in Damaturu, Nguru, Machina and Bursari Local Government Areas following torrential downpours on Saturday, August 2, 2026.
In a situation report released on Saturday, SEMA said it received multiple distress alerts from community leaders, security agencies and LGA authorities reporting intense rainfall that led to sudden flooding in several communities.
Affected areas in Damaturu LGA include Moduri, Abbari Sabon Kwalta, Malari Sabon Kwalta, Pompomari, Sumsumma and Nayinawa. In Nguru, flooding was reported along New Side Best Center and Balanguwa Road, as well as across nine wards.
In Bursari, Turbangini and Dinani/Lawanti Ward were affected, while in Machina LGA, Alhaji Madi Street, Hausari and Machina town recorded incidents.
SEMA noted that the list reflects only locations formally reported and verified so far, adding that more communities may be confirmed as assessments continue.
Preliminary observations indicate that several residential buildings sustained varying degrees of damage. The exact number of affected households, displaced persons and casualties is yet to be determined.
“In response, SEMA has immediately activated and deployed a multi-stakeholder Rapid Assessment Team comprising SEMA officials, LGA representatives and trained community volunteers. The team is currently conducting on-site evaluations,” the agency said.
The agency urged residents to take safety precautions, including staying indoors in structurally sound buildings, avoiding low-lying areas, riverbanks and drainage channels, and not walking or driving through floodwaters.
It also advised residents to secure loose roofing sheets and other objects, disconnect electrical appliances, keep children and the elderly indoors, and prepare emergency kits with water, food, first-aid and power banks.
“Never attempt to walk or drive through floodwaters. Remember the rule: ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown’,” SEMA warned.
The agency further cautioned against water-borne diseases and urged residents to boil drinking water and maintain strict hygiene.
SEMA said it is working with LGA authorities and volunteers to provide support to affected communities and will release detailed findings to guide intervention and recovery efforts.
