Assessing the Nature and Causes of Flooding in Ugbor Area, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The nature  and causes of flooding in Ugbor area Benson Idahosa University, Benin City Edo state is a major concern of residents as such there is a need to determine the factors responsible for flooding and identify its impact In this study, rainfall data was collected from a secondary source, data was analyzed using descriptive statistics methods such as mean, standard deviation and variance. Also, data was collected using questionnaire from primary source which the data was analyzed and presented.  From the rainfall data analysis from 2009 to 2019 (10 years rainfall analysis), it was observed that year 2011 has the highest amount of rainfall (2452.4mm). Results showed that in flood occurrences for the past 10years, Benson Idahosa University road and Ighile street has the highest occurrence of flood (26) while Prince Agbor (20). Also 2017 to 2011 had the highest flood (16.25% and 13.75% respectively), The major cause of flooding is rainfall (36.25%), blockage of drainages (32.5%), building of plains is 12.5% and poor planning/ land use is 18.75%.. Suggestions such as provision of incinerators and trash cans would also reduce the blocking of drainage system and control flooding to a reasonable extent