A commercial tricycle operator was feared dead after a heavy rainstorm battered parts of Anambra State on Monday night, destroying roofs, walls and other structures.
The Anambra rainstorm was accompanied by several hours of intense rainfall, which also triggered flooding and worsened erosion in parts of the state.
Several roads were reportedly submerged, while newly formed gullies made some routes difficult or impossible to navigate.
In Awka, the tricycle operator was reportedly swept away by floodwater while attempting to help a woman caught in the downpour.
He was said to have been carried away around the Book Foundation area of the state capital.
His body was later found around Miracle Junction in the Ifite area, hours after the incident.
Residents reportedly attempted to rescue the man but were unable to withstand the strength of the floodwater.
The Anambra rainstorm also caused significant structural damage in Nawfia, within Njikoka Local Government Area.
Strong winds accompanying the storm reportedly tore the roof covering a filling station’s fuel pumps from its structure.
The displaced structure fell onto a shuttle bus that was reportedly at the facility to purchase fuel.
The impact nearly split the vehicle into two, according to reports.
Following the incident, operators of the filling station shut down the facility.
Another incident was recorded in the 2nd Market area of Ifite, Awka, where a resident reported damage within his compound.
The resident said a loud, thunderous sound was heard during the storm before a perimeter fence collapsed.
The fallen wall reportedly landed on an SUV parked within the compound.
The latest incidents have renewed concerns about the effects of heavy rainfall across communities already vulnerable to flooding and erosion.
Residents in affected areas have continued to contend with damaged structures, flooded roads and erosion-related hazards during periods of intense rainfall.
The incidents underscore the need for heightened caution as heavy rains continue, particularly in areas prone to flooding and erosion.
Authorities and residents are expected to remain vigilant over potential risks to lives, property and road access following the latest storm.
