FLOODING AMONG RESIDENTS

In Nigeria, flooding is a frequent environmental danger that disrupts infrastructure, the economy, and society. This study examined an evaluation of perceived vulnerability and mitigation strategies for flooding among residents of Egor Local Government Area (LGA), Edo State. The main objective was to assess residents’ understanding of flood hazards, factors influencing their perceptions of susceptibility, and the adaptation and mitigation strategies they employ. Three research questions guided the study. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and 150 residents were randomly selected as the sample Data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed to measure flood awareness, perceived susceptibility, and mitigation practices. Findings revealed that residents of Egor LGA have a good understanding of flood hazards, identifying poor or blocked drainage systems, heavy rainfall, building on natural water channels, and improper waste disposal as primary causes. Factors influencing perceptions of susceptibility include elevation, proximity to drainage channels, poor urban planning, and blocked drains. Residents reported adopting several mitigation strategies, such as raising building foundations, avoiding dumping waste into drains, regularly clearing drainage channels, heeding flood warnings, and supporting community cleanliness campaigns. Based on these findings, the study recommended enhancing community awareness programs, improving drainage infrastructure, enforcing urban planning regulations, and strengthening public education on flood preparedness to reduce vulnerability and enhance resilience in Egor LGA.