Qauia Village in Lami faced severe flooding yesterday, with rising waters submerging the community’s main bridge, the only access route for residents. By midday, while water levels were still below the bridge, continuous rainfall resulted in the crossing becoming impassable by 3 p.m.
Mere Sariki, a 61-year-old visitor to Qauia, witnessed the rapid water level rise 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 noted, voicing concerns that ongoing rain overnight could result in even greater flooding. “The flooding typically impacts homes that are near the riverbank,” she pointed out.
Long-time resident Laisa Jeke remarked that this flooding event echoed a similar situation from the previous month. “This has happened every time there is heavy rain. Last month, water entered about 20 homes, and now we are witnessing the same thing again,” Ms. Jeke said, recalling how the flooding extended to the middle of the village last time. She stressed the necessity of monitoring water levels during intense downpours, as the bridge is usually the first area to feel the impact.
The flooding in Qauia also left parts of Lami Town and surrounding areas affected, with sections of the main road inundated and traffic slowed down. Local authorities are urged to remain alert, ensuring community safety during this weather emergency, as residents prepare for the potential of more rainfall and its associated challenges. This situation, while troubling, reinforces the need for community resilience and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.