…Severe Ponding Traps Cars, Overruns Homes and Event Centres Across Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt City
Severe flooding has again crippled economic and social life across Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas, with residents crying out as deep floodwaters overran streets, homes, and community event centres in multiple neighbourhoods.
CDA News Nigeria reports that the worst-hit areas include Peter Odili Road, Aba Road, Eliozu, Market Junction in Rumumasi, NTA Road, and parts of Old Port Harcourt Township.
CDA News Nigeria gathered that Rumuokwuta, Rukpokwu, and Rumueme were heavily flooded, with water overrunning streets, homes, and community event centres. In Ozuoba, Rumuekparachi, and Ogbogoro Roads, the roads were described as nearly impassable, with deep floodwaters trapping and submerging expensive cars.
Residents in Rukpokwu said the situation had reached alarming levels, with some forced to evacuate their homes. A local report indicated that a bridge built in the area had blocked the canal through which water normally flowed, causing water to spread into the community whenever it rains.
The recurring flooding has been linked to blocked drainage channels, poor urban planning, and the failure of existing stormwater infrastructure to cope with heavy rainfall. Residents have repeatedly blamed the situation on inadequate drainage and unplanned development, with many calling for urgent government intervention.
Earlier in September, a four-hour downpour had already submerged Woji, NTA Road, Choba, Ogbogoro, Eneka, Mile 3, Rumukwachi, and Ozuoba, forcing families to flee their homes and trapping vehicles in flooded streets .
The Federal Government had in August warned that 915 communities across 19 states, including Port Harcourt, were at critical risk of flooding between August 27 and September 9, 2026, citing high soil moisture, rapid surface runoff, and drainage surcharge.
Some relief may be in sight for Rumuokwachi residents, as a major drainage channel was opened on September 23, allowing floodwater to flow toward the Ogbogoro River. A resident confirmed the water was gradually receding, with the Commissioner for Works indicating further work would be done during the dry season.
CDA News Nigeria reports that the specific flood locations and descriptions are attributed to residents and local reports, and no official casualty figures have been released as of the time of filing this report.
Editorial Policy: CDA News Nigeria is committed to accurate and balanced reporting on metro and disaster matters. Claims are attributed to their sources.
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