The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) of Liberia has issued a stark warning to its citizens, forecasting a period of intense rainfall and potential for severe flooding during the upcoming rainy season, which typically spans from May to October. The NDMA’s Executive Director, Ansu V. S. Dulleh, emphasized the gravity of the situation, citing predictions from the World Bank that pinpoint June to September as the peak of the rainy season, with rainfall in Monrovia expected to exceed 1000mm in June and September, and over 800mm in July and August. This intense precipitation, coupled with anticipated wind speeds reaching up to 8mph and violent storms moving at 73mph, creates a high-risk environment for flooding and other weather-related disasters.
The NDMA estimates that over 60,000 residents in low-lying, coastal, and flood-prone areas are particularly vulnerable to flash and coastal flooding. Furthermore, the predicted high winds pose a significant threat to structures lacking climate resilience, potentially leading to widespread damage and displacement. The agency also anticipates a rise in waterborne diseases as a consequence of the flooding. These combined threats underscore the severity of the impending rainy season and necessitate comprehensive preparedness measures.
In response to these looming threats, the Liberian government has initiated proactive measures to mitigate the potential impact of the predicted flooding. President of the Republic of Liberia has issued Executive Order 141, aimed at preventing further encroachment on wetlands, a crucial natural defense against flooding. This order is currently being enforced to protect these vital ecosystems. Furthermore, the NDMA is collaborating with the Ministry of Public Works and other relevant institutions to clear drainage systems and waterways as part of the World Bank-funded Liberia Urban Resilience Project. These efforts are designed to enhance the country’s infrastructure and its capacity to withstand the anticipated heavy rainfall.
The NDMA has also implemented a multi-pronged preparedness strategy. The agency has conducted numerous coordination meetings and developed a comprehensive Flood Response Plan to address potential flooding threats. A monitoring system has also been established to track and respond to any health-related hazards that may arise due to flooding, such as outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Recognizing the importance of international collaboration, the NDMA is working closely with the World Bank, which has assigned a consultant specializing in disaster risk management to assist the agency in strengthening its risk financing strategy. This collaboration will help facilitate the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s response to flood and other hazard events.
As part of its public awareness campaign, the NDMA strongly advises citizens to heed all early warning messages and adhere to recommended safety measures to minimize the impact of flooding and related hazards on their lives and livelihoods. The agency has established a hotline (2024) and encourages the public to use this number, along with other emergency lines like 911 and 4455, to report flooding incidents or request assistance. This proactive approach emphasizes the shared responsibility between the government and the public in disaster preparedness and response.
The NDMA’s comprehensive preparations, coupled with the government’s proactive measures, aim to mitigate the potentially devastating effects of the predicted flooding. The combination of infrastructure improvements, coordinated response plans, enhanced monitoring systems, and public awareness campaigns reflects a commitment to minimizing the impact of the rainy season on vulnerable communities and the nation as a whole. However, the severity of the forecast necessitates continued vigilance and a collective effort to ensure the safety and well-being of all Liberians during this challenging period. The success of these measures will ultimately depend on the cooperation and preparedness of individuals, communities, and government agencies working together to navigate the challenges of the impending rainy season.
