
08/08/2025
Flood Crisis Looms: Mayo Louti River Surges, Nigeria's Communities on High Alert!
A critical flood situation has emerged in Cameroon, with the Mayo Louti River experiencing a significant surge, according to recent video evidence and reports. The river, a key tributary within the Upper Benue Basin, has risen to levels where its waters are reportedly touching bridge decks, signaling a major surface runoff event. This phenomenon is primarily attributed to heavy and sustained rainfall in the Mandara Highlands.
The Mayo Louti River, a seasonal waterway originating from the Mandara Mountains in Northern Cameroon, flows unimpeded into the Mayo Kébi and subsequently into the Benue River system. It ultimately drains into Nigeria, specifically entering through Wuro-Bokki in the Upper Benue River Basin. A crucial characteristic of the Mayo Louti is its unregulated flow; it is not controlled by any dam. Consequently, intense upstream rainfall directly translates into immediate and substantial surges downstream, impacting communities along its path.
Recent observations from the Upper Benue Wuro-Bokki Hydrological Station on August 6, 2025, confirm a steady and concerning rise in water levels. Readings indicate a progression from 5.85 meters at 7:00 AM to 6.00 meters by 12:00 PM, culminating in 6.05 meters by 5:00 PM. These figures place the river dangerously close to the established warning level of 6.50 meters, with the alarm level set at 7.00 meters. The current rise is further exacerbated by contributions from other converging tributaries, Mayo Killange and Mayo Faro, both of which join the system upstream of Wuro-Bokki.
While water levels at Jimeta Bridge currently remain low, recorded at 4.21 meters as of 5:00 PM, hydrological experts anticipate a significant rise within the next 12 to 24 hours. This expected increase is due to the downstream movement of the flood wave, which is now progressing from the Mayo Louti surge.
Authorities have issued a critical clarification regarding the source of the current flood. It has been emphatically stated that the Lagdo Dam, located in Cameroon and impounding the main Benue River, is not responsible for the present surge. As of this report, there have been no official releases from the Lagdo Dam, nor have Cameroonian authorities issued any alerts concerning its operation. The observed flooding is solely a result of natural rainfall and subsequent runoff, particularly originating from the Mandara Mountain region.
The current situation is deemed to be at a critical threshold. Should rainfall persist or intensify in the upstream areas, there is a high probability that water levels at Wuro-Bokki will exceed the warning level, leading to a noticeable rise at Jimeta Bridge as early as tomorrow. Hydrological teams are maintaining a state of high alert, conducting continuous monitoring of the situation. Should conditions necessitate, appropriate early action triggers will be activated, and all relevant stakeholders will be promptly notified.
Communities residing along the floodplain are strongly urged to remain vigilant and to closely follow all updates and directives issued by local hydrological and emergency response agencies. The emphasis is on collaborative monitoring and the dissemination of only verified information to ensure public safety and effective response efforts. Residents are advised to prioritize their safety and adhere to all official guidance as the situation develops.
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