By AMINA AHMED

The Bauchi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has warned of prolonged dry spell and possible flash floods during the rainy season in 12 local government areas (LGAs) of the state.

Mr Mas’ud Aliyu, the Director General of the agency, gave the warning at a stakeholder’s sensitisation meeting on the 2026 Weather Forecast and Disaster Preparedness held in Bauchi on Wednesday.

He urged stakeholders to adopt proactive measures to safeguard lives and livelihoods

“The preliminary climate data indicated a severe 21-day dry spell expected between June and August.

“This could significantly affect agricultural activities across 12 local government areas.

“The affected areas are Itas-Gadau, Jama’are, Katagum, Misau, Giade, Shira, Dambam, Darazo, Ningi, Warji, Gamawa and Zaki.

“The forecast presents a “unique and alarming paradox,” as the same period may also witness isolated flash floods triggered by sudden and intense rainfall.

“This is not just a weather update; it is a warning about potential food insecurity, water scarcity and livestock distress,” he said.

Aliyu said that dry soils, hardened by prolonged heat, may be unable to absorb heavy downpours, thereby increasing the risk of flooding in some communities.

The DG stressed the need to translate seasonal climate predictions into practical, on-farm decisions and community-level responses.

He called on soil scientists, agronomists, agricultural economists and extension workers to provide technical support in areas such as soil moisture management, crop selection, planting schedules and risk assessment.

Aliyu also urged stakeholders, including traditional rulers and government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), to ensure that early warning messages reached grassroots communities.

“SEMA cannot do this alone.

“We need Local Government Chairmen to remain vigilant and share data promptly, while the Ministry of Agriculture and the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme (BSADP) should provide drought-resistant seeds,” he said.

The DG further called on the Ministry of Water Resources to prepare for possible water trucking and advised the media to intensify public awareness campaigns on weather-related risks.

He emphasised the importance of community cooperation, urging residents to heed early warnings and adopt adaptive measures to mitigate the impact of extreme weather conditions.

Aliyu expressed optimism that with collective action and support from experts, including scientists from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), the state could build resilience against the anticipated challenges. (NAN)