Qauia Village in Lami experienced significant flooding yesterday, as rising waters submerged the village’s main bridge, the only route for residents to enter and exit the community. By midday, although water levels were still below the bridge, relentless rains led to the crossing becoming impassable by 3 p.m.
Mere Sariki, a 61-year-old visitor in the village, observed the rapid rise in water levels throughout the afternoon. “At 12 p.m. the water was still under the bridge, but by around 3 p.m. it had already covered it,” she recounted, expressing concerns that continued rainfall overnight could lead to more extensive flooding. “The flooding usually affects the houses that are close to the riverbank,” she added.
Laisa Jeke, a long-term resident of Qauia, noted that this flooding mirrored a similar incident from the previous month. “This has been happening every time there is heavy rain. Last month, the water entered about 20 homes, and now we are seeing the same situation again,” Ms. Jeke said, recalling how flooding reached the middle of the village last time. She emphasized the importance of monitoring water levels, especially during heavy downpours, as the bridge is typically the first area to be affected.
In addition to Qauia’s bridge, surface flooding impacted parts of Lami Town and surrounding areas, with sections of the main road inundated and traffic slowing. Local authorities are advised to remain vigilant, ensuring community safety during this weather emergency, as residents brace for the possibility of further rainfall and its repercussions.