Windstorm in Jigawa Kills Seven, Displaces Over 5,400

A devastating windstorm struck Jigawa State, leading to the deaths of seven individuals and displacing over 5,400 residents across 120 communities. Hannafi Yakubu, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), reported that the storm occurred shortly after the rainy season commenced, causing widespread destruction.

The storm damaged residential buildings, public facilities, including 50 schools and two police stations. The affected local government areas include Duts, Gwaram, Birnin Kudu, Kiyawa, Babura, Gumel, Kaugama, Ringim, Gagarawa, Kirikasamma, Sule Tankarkar, and Miga, with Duts recording the highest number of affected individuals at 1,182.

The state government has approved N800 million for emergency preparedness and relief material procurement. Although the windstorm has caused extensive damage, it has not yet led to widespread flooding.

SEMA is coordinating with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to assess the situation and provide necessary support to affected communities.