Torrential rainfall lasting over 12 hours has triggered devastating floods in Gumsuri and Wovi communities of Damboa Local Government Area, Borno State, leaving at least two persons dead and dozens homeless.
The downpour, which began late Sunday, submerged large parts of the communities, destroying homes, displacing families, and cutting off access routes.
Preliminary assessments indicate that nearly half of all residential structures in the affected areas were either severely damaged or completely washed away. Many residents have since fled to higher ground, salvaging what little belongings they could carry.
“The situation is critical. Many have lost everything – homes, food, clothes. We are overwhelmed,” said a community elder in Gumsuri who appealed for urgent government and humanitarian intervention.
Eyewitnesses reported that the floodwaters rose rapidly, catching several residents off guard and forcing entire families to abandon their homes in the middle of the night.
Community members fear that the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue and more areas become accessible.
Security and humanitarian analyst, Zagazola Makama, confirmed that emergency response teams are on ground to assess the full scale of the disaster and verify the number of casualties.
Local leaders have called on the Borno State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), NGOs, and individuals to provide emergency shelter, food, clothing, and medical aid for the displaced population.
As of Monday afternoon, makeshift camps had begun forming in elevated areas of the LGA, with many residents sleeping in the open under harsh weather conditions.
Environmental experts have long warned about the impact of climate change on flood-prone areas in the North-East, urging improved drainage infrastructure and early warning systems.
