Flash Floods Displace Thousands in Yola as NEMA Leads Rescue Operations

The Yola Operations Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched major search, rescue, and evacuation efforts after flash floods submerged 13 communities in Yola North and Yola South Local Government Areas of Adamawa State on Tuesday.

The heavy rainfall, which began at about 4 a.m. and lasted until midday, inundated residential buildings, business centres, and places of worship. Thousands of households in Damilu, Jambutu, Bachure, Runde, Shinko, and other communities were forced to abandon their homes, with many families now taking refuge along major roads.

The disaster occurred barely two months after flooding in the state claimed more than 30 lives. It also followed a Federal Government alert issued on Sunday, warning that 32 locations across 11 states, including Adamawa, were at risk of severe rainfall and flooding between September 14 and 18.

Dr. Celine Laori, Executive Secretary of the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency, described the flooding as devastating but confirmed that no deaths had been recorded. She said ADSEMA, alongside the police, fire service, and other agencies, were actively engaged in rescue operations.

Police spokesperson SP Suleiman Nguroje disclosed that the command’s marine unit had been deployed to support ongoing efforts. He added that Commissioner of Police Dankombo Morris had visited affected communities, urging residents to remain calm, avoid flood-prone areas, and prioritize safety.

On its official X handle, NEMA confirmed that its rapid-response teams, working with ADSEMA, fire services, emergency volunteers, and security agencies, had evacuated vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities to temporary shelters.

The agency said it had also carried out rapid assessments of the damage to property, infrastructure, and humanitarian needs, noting that the operation was coordinated closely with state authorities and humanitarian partners to ensure timely assistance and avoid duplication of efforts.