The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department has advised residents living near waterways and drainage channels in Abuja to relocate to safer areas as the rainy season becomes more intense.

The warning was issued by the Acting Director-General of FEMD, Abdulrahman Mohammed, following a flood incident that affected a residential building at 22 Anthony Ikem Street, behind Blue Cabana Hotel in Mabushi District during the early hours of Friday.

According to a statement signed by FEMD’s Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, the agency received a distress call around 3:00 a.m. after heavy overnight rainfall caused severe flooding.

Emergency responders were immediately deployed to the location, where both ground-floor flats of the affected building were submerged up to window level.

The agency said rescue workers had to manually remove floodwater after the generator powering a pumping machine developed a fault during operations.

Although no casualties were recorded, the flood damaged household property, food items, and important documents belonging to residents.

Mohammed urged residents to take preventive measures by relocating from flood-prone areas, especially those situated along water channels.

He also called on residents and relevant authorities to clear blocked drainage systems and remove structures obstructing natural waterways to reduce the risk of flooding.

The warning comes amid growing concerns over recurring flash floods in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, where rapid urban development, blocked drains, and construction on natural water paths have increased vulnerability to seasonal flooding.

Emergency officials have repeatedly advised residents in low-lying and flood-prone communities to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines throughout the rainy season.