The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command has advised residents of the state, particularly those living in flood-prone communities to relocate to safer areas.

State Commandant, Maku Olatunde gave the advice after accessing preparedness of the Command’s Disaster management Unit as precautionary measures to avert flood disasters.

He said the charge which is in adherence to the Corps core mandate of disaster prevention, mitigation and management followed predicted potential flooding warned by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

“The command as a proactive measure in mitigating against flooding associated with the rainy season has embarked on public awareness/ advocacy visits especially on high-risk communities.

“The visit is to educate and enlighten the public on the inherent dangers of flood and the need for all and sundry to adopt measures especially relocation advisories to avert the impending disaster,” he said.

NSCDC boss also directed the Deputy Commandant, Nnadi Ngozi, in charge of the Disaster Management Unit to mobilise emergency teams of personnel to flood-prone areas, intensify public awareness and sensitisation campaigns across all media platforms.

He further directed the Unit to collaborate with traditional rulers, president generals, and other relevant stakeholders in disaster management across the state.

“Consequently, all area commanders and divisional officers, especially those of high-risk zones have been tasked to activate immediate preparedness and safe evacuation strategies to ensure residents are not caught unaware.

“Some of the high-risk zones include Ayamelum, Anambra East, Anambra West, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Awka North and Ogbaru LGAs respectively,” he revealed.