As a result of the torrential rains that struck the city of Mokwa in Nigeria during the night of May twenty-ninth to thirtieth, a massive flood occurred — already being described as one of the most devastating in the past sixty years. As of June 1st, the death toll has exceeded 200 people, and nearly 500 residents are reported missing.
The disaster caused widespread destruction to the city’s infrastructure. A total of two hundred sixty-five homes were completely destroyed, and the raging waters swept away two strategically important bridges. The neighborhoods hit hardest were Tiffin-Maza and Anguwan-Hausawa, where approximately three thousand buildings ended up submerged. Over five thousand people have been left homeless and are currently in urgent need of emergency assistance.
Eyewitnesses recount that the water came suddenly and violently, seemingly from afar, engulfing the city as most residents were still asleep. The floodwaters rose so quickly that there was no time to prepare or evacuate.
People shared heartbreaking accounts of watching helplessly as their loved ones were swept away right before their eyes.
A powerful torrent — over six and a half feet high — literally demolished everything in its path. According to rescuers, many of the victims were carried away by the raging current into the Niger River.
The National Emergency Management Agency has already labeled the event as an “unprecedented flood.” But what’s especially alarming is that the peak of the rainy season hasn’t even begun yet.
This catastrophe serves as a powerful reminder to people all over the world that natural disasters, particularly floods, have drastically changed. They are becoming more frequent, more intense, and increasingly unpredictable. That’s why not only emergency services, but also everyday people, must be prepared.
Today, it’s critical for everyone to understand how to act during a natural disaster in order to protect their lives and the lives of their loved ones. We strongly encourage you to watch a video address by scientist Dr. Egon Cholakian, where he explains why such events are now happening on our planet, what we should expect in the coming years, and most importantly, how we can stop it.