Nigeria takes action: What NEMA’s new fire and flood strategy means for 2025

by Featured NewsFloodingSafety

Fire prevention campaign targets Lagos tanker drivers

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched a public safety initiative to address tanker-related fire risks in Lagos State, Nigeria.

According to NEMA, the Lagos Operations Office conducted a public sensitisation campaign in multiple locations across the state, targeting tanker drivers and at-risk communities.

The campaign began at OPIC, a known rest stop for tanker operators, where NEMA officials and Emergency Management Volunteers from the National Youth Service Corps distributed educational materials and delivered in-person safety briefings.

The agency stated that sessions focused on tanker explosion risks, fire safety precautions, and the need for individual responsibility in preventing incidents.

Practical guidance was provided to drivers, including advice on pre-departure inspections, fuel line checks, avoiding overfilling, routine vehicle maintenance, and participation in regular training programmes.

NEMA also advised members of the public to avoid fuel collection at accident sites and to remain at a safe distance until emergency responders arrive.

Industry engagement on disaster risk reduction

The awareness campaign continued with a visit to the NUPENG office at NNPC Ejigbo.

NEMA reported that the outreach included briefings with union members on road safety, fire prevention, and community-level risk reduction strategies.

According to the agency, the emphasis was placed on a shared approach to reducing the frequency and severity of tanker-related emergencies.

NUPENG members were said to have welcomed the engagement and expressed support for further dissemination of fire safety messages within their networks.

The campaign forms part of wider public education efforts being undertaken by NEMA to reduce fire incidents and improve community safety in Lagos and surrounding areas.

National flood response centre inaugurated in Abuja

Separately, NEMA has announced the official opening of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) to coordinate flood response measures across Nigeria.

The agency said the NEOC was inaugurated by NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar, represented by Dr Onimode Abdullahi Bandele, Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting.

According to NEMA, the centre will serve as a central coordination hub linking federal and sub-national entities, enabling more effective disaster response planning and operational support.

The NEOC is intended to provide a central platform for real-time flood monitoring, data collection, information sharing, and deployment of response resources.

NEMA reported that the centre’s establishment reflects its preparedness efforts ahead of the anticipated 2025 flood season.

The centre became operational immediately following its launch.

Real-time data platform to support 2025 flood response

During the NEOC staff inauguration, Zubaida Umar called for professionalism and diligence among personnel.

The agency stated that she emphasised the importance of continuous data updates and maintaining a reliable flood information dashboard.

According to NEMA, the dashboard will be used to support timely decision-making and guide response strategies during emergencies.

The agency explained that the NEOC will track flood developments across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

It said the platform would help coordinate multiple agencies involved in emergency preparedness and recovery.

Dr Bandele noted that the NEOC’s data-driven approach is central to NEMA’s strategy for the current year’s flood management.

NEMA outlines integrated safety strategy

NEMA stated that the combination of public education and data coordination reflects a multi-level approach to disaster preparedness.

By addressing both fire and flood risks, the agency said it aims to reduce casualties and infrastructure loss during emergencies.

According to NEMA, these initiatives represent a shift towards proactive safety engagement in high-risk regions.

The agency reiterated its call for public cooperation, particularly among road users and communities in flood-prone areas.

NEMA added that it will continue working with state agencies, unions, and civil society partners to improve emergency readiness nationwide.

Nigeria: NEMA launches fire safety drive and opens national disaster operations centre: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) launched a fire safety awareness campaign in Lagos State.

The campaign targeted tanker drivers and at-risk communities.

NEMA conducted outreach at OPIC and NUPENG’s NNPC Ejigbo office.

Drivers received fire safety advice, including vehicle checks and training.

The public was advised to avoid fuel scooping and wait for responders.

NUPENG committed to helping spread the campaign’s message.

Separately, NEMA opened the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in Abuja.

The NEOC will coordinate 2025 flood response across all 36 states and the FCT.

It provides real-time monitoring, data management, and resource deployment.

Director General Zubaida Umar urged staff to maintain an accurate flood dashboard.

The NEOC began operations immediately after the inauguration.

NEMA stated these actions reflect a national shift to proactive risk reduction.

Fire and rescue services in England face funding shortfall as incident rates rise

by Breaking NewsFloodingSearch and Rescue

Fire and rescue incident demand rises 20% in England

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has reported that fire and rescue services in England attended over 600,000 incidents in 2024, a 20% increase compared with 2014.

According to NFCC analysis of Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government data, fire and rescue services responded to 600,185 incidents in the year ending December 2024, compared to 499,934 incidents in 2014.

The NFCC said the number of non-fire incidents has increased by 65% over the same period, from 128,488 in 2014 to 211,631 in 2024.

Collaboration incidents and public health emergencies increase demands

The NFCC reported that in 2024, fire and rescue services in England attended 72,694 collaboration incidents, an 11% increase on the previous year.

It said these included responding to incidents alongside other emergency services, assisting entry and exit, and attending suicide-related events.

The NFCC stated that the number of suicide-related incidents attended by fire and rescue services rose from 1,119 in 2014 to 3,184 in 2024, an increase of 184%.

The organisation noted that such incidents have steadily increased in the last decade, alongside wider public health challenges.

Climate change increases wildfire and flooding callouts

According to the NFCC, the number of flooding incidents attended by fire and rescue services has increased by 18% in recent years.

It said the 5-year rolling average rose from 13,854 between 2012 and 2019, to 16,412 between 2019 and 2024.

The NFCC added that 225 wildfires had already been attended as of 27 May 2025, compared with 34 for the same period in 2024 and 106 in 2022, which was a record year for wildfires.

The council stated that these trends show fire and rescue services are responding to risks directly linked to the climate crisis.

Workforce reductions and underinvestment raise concerns

The NFCC said the number of wholetime firefighters in England has fallen by 25% since 2008, a reduction of approximately 11,000 personnel.

It estimated that fire and rescue services have lost nearly £1 billion in capital investment since the removal of the capital funding grant in 2014/15.

According to the NFCC, this loss has affected the ability of services to maintain and modernise infrastructure, including fire stations.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said: “These figures are unequivocal – fire and rescue services are busier now than they were 10 years ago, and we are taking on more responsibility, not less.

“The risks faced are now more challenging and more complex.

“Despite this fact, we are seeing firefighter numbers falling, whereas all other public services are seeing their numbers return to pre-austerity levels.”

Garrigan added: “Our work to support our blue light colleagues is crucial in maintaining public safety and we welcome the opportunity to make a real difference but, if it is to be sustained against a backdrop of increasing demand, we need to see investment back into the fire and rescue service.”

“If we leave fire and rescue services without proper financial support and investment, we risk undermining public and firefighter safety.

“When it comes to wildfires, flooding and terrorism – fire and rescue services are right at the heart of the response.

“If we fail to invest, then we need to be prepared to answer to the communities that rely on these services in their greatest time of need.”

Garrigan continued: “The world has changed, and we cannot rely on an outdated funding model that has removed all capital funding and hasn’t responded to a changing demand profile or the impact of the climate change crisis to underpin a service as crucial as fire and rescue.”

Fire and rescue services in England face funding shortfall as incident rates rise: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council has reported that fire and rescue services in England responded to 600,185 incidents in 2024.

This represents a 20% increase compared to 2014.

The number of non-fire incidents rose from 128,488 in 2014 to 211,631 in 2024.

Collaboration-related callouts increased by 11% in 2024, reaching 72,694 incidents.

Suicide-related incidents increased by 184% over the last decade.

The 5-year average for flooding incidents rose by 18% since 2019.

Fire and rescue services responded to 225 wildfires by 27 May 2025.

This is over 100 more than during the same period in 2022.

The NFCC estimates a £1 billion capital investment loss since 2014/15.

Firefighter numbers in England have declined by 25% since 2008.

The NFCC has called for renewed investment in fire and rescue services.

Fire and Rescue NSW deploys mobile decontamination gantry during floods

by Featured NewsFloodingHealth and SafetySafetyVehicles

Decontamination system used in Australia during Port Macquarie flood

Fire and Rescue NSW has reported the first operational use of a mobile decontamination gantry during a flood incident in Port Macquarie.

The unit was introduced to clean vehicles and personnel exposed to floodwater during multi-agency emergency response efforts.

According to Fire and Rescue NSW, the gantry processed over 150 vehicles and cleaned more than 250 emergency workers on Wednesday.

Developed after earlier flood response identified safety risks

Fire and Rescue NSW stated that the mobile gantry was created based on experiences during the 2021 New South Wales floods.

During that period, emergency personnel relied on manual methods such as pressure hoses, which were time-consuming and posed health risks.

The new system was designed to reduce manual handling and speed up the decontamination process.

Rapid set-up and remote deployment capability

The organisation explained that the gantry can be deployed within hours to incidents requiring fast decontamination.

It can be used at scene and positioned to intercept vehicles before they return to base or re-enter community areas.

The system’s flexibility is intended to improve both public health outcomes and response efficiency.

Risk reduction for emergency services personnel

Greg Wright, Superintendent HAZMAT and Counter Terrorism at Fire and Rescue NSW, said the system improves safety during emergency operations.

Wright said:
“In the past, vehicle decontamination was conducted using labour-intensive methods such as pressure washers and hoses, which is time-consuming and also exposes personnel to unnecessary risks.”

“This system significantly reduces both risk and resource requirements, allowing crews to return to their base with a reduced risk of injury or illness, allowing them to focus their efforts on community recovery.”

Wright added that the gantry now forms part of the agency’s broader approach to hazardous materials and environmental protection strategies.

Fire and Rescue NSW deploys mobile decontamination gantry during floods: Summary

Fire and Rescue NSW has used a portable decontamination gantry for the first time during flood operations in Port Macquarie.

The system was introduced to address risks identified in the 2021 New South Wales floods.

It processed more than 150 vehicles and cleaned over 250 personnel.

The gantry is portable and can be deployed within hours.

It replaces pressure hoses and manual cleaning methods.

Greg Wright of Fire and Rescue NSW said the gantry reduces risks and resource demands.

The system contributes to the agency’s environmental and HAZMAT strategies.

London launches surface water strategy to tackle urban flooding

by Breaking NewsFlooding

New strategy published to address surface water flooding in London

London Councils has reported that the capital’s first dedicated surface water strategy has been launched to reduce the risk of urban flooding and improve citywide climate resilience.

The London Surface Water Strategy, developed by the Flood Ready London partnership, brings together organisations including the Environment Agency, London Councils, London Fire Brigade, the Mayor of London, Thames Water, and Transport for London.

The strategy was developed in response to the flooding caused by heavy downpours in July 2021, which affected at least 2,000 properties.

According to London Councils, such incidents are expected to become more frequent and intense due to climate change and the city’s urban infrastructure.

The partnership aims to develop practical and cost-effective measures to manage flood risk and reduce disruption to Londoners and essential services.

Catchment partnerships trialled to support citywide coordination

Ten Surface Water Catchment Partnerships will be piloted across Greater London over the next two years.

The first two, located in Central London and the Lee Valley, will coordinate local efforts to reduce flood risk through projects such as installing rain gardens and incorporating surface water overflows into new developments.

Each partnership will be eligible to apply for funding to implement localised water management measures.

Flood Ready London is supported by the Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee and has secured £1.5 million for Sustainable Drainage Systems projects.

Funding contributions of £500,000 each have been provided by the Mayor of London, Transport for London, and Thames Water.

The group continues to pursue further funding to support delivery of its strategy.

Key organisations call for long-term planning

Charlie Wood, Environment Agency Director for London, said: “We are proud to be part of leading such a groundbreaking approach to reducing the impacts of urban surface water flooding in a major worldwide city like London. 

“This partnership is the perfect example of how the Environment Agency provides strategic overview for all forms of flooding nationwide.”

“Working with the mayor, boroughs and partners across London, we have produced a truly evidence-led, catchment-based approach to a complex issue.”

“We must now focus our collaborative efforts on where we can all make most impact.”

Cllr Kieron Williams, London Councils’ Executive Member for Transport and Environment, said: “Boroughs play a vital role in protecting our city from the very real threat of flooding.

“We know the devastating, long-lasting impact it can have on people’s homes, businesses and livelihoods, disproportionately affecting our most vulnerable communities.”

“We saw this first hand in July 2021 when two devastating storms flooded at least 2,000 properties across the capital. We are committed to ensuring Londoners are protected from the risk of flooding and the huge damage and disruption it can bring.”

“Through Flood Ready London, we will work with partners to take a coordinated and collaborative approach to surface water management that helps protect our city and better prepare our communities for when flooding does occur.

“This will build on the extensive work boroughs already do to prevent flooding across the capital – from installing rain gardens and other sustainable drainage solutions, to working with local communities to raise awareness of flood risk.”

Climate change prompts emergency preparedness focus

Pat Goulbourne, Assistant Commissioner at London Fire Brigade, said: “Climate change is evolving the challenges fire and rescue services face, and it is important to have the plans in place to ensure that London is more resilient to the extreme weather we are experiencing on an increasingly regular basis.

“Heavy rain and urban flooding can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure. Being prepared will help minimise this threat and is vital to the wellbeing of this city and all Londoners.”

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “The climate emergency remains one of the biggest threats we face. In the past we’ve seen how devastating flash flooding can be to Londoners, and extreme weather events are unfortunately becoming more common in our city.

“I’m determined to do all I can to make London more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

“The London Surface Water Strategy is a new pan-London approach which will see us work closely with environmental organisations to better adapt, prepare for and reduce the impact of surface water flooding.

“Together, we will work to future-proof the capital against climate change and build a better, greener London for everyone.”

Infrastructure, planning and education all part of solution

Alex Nickson, Head of Partnerships and Catchment Management at Thames Water, said: “This strategy is a groundbreaking approach to dealing with the very real challenge of flooding in London. We have seen the devastating impact it can have on homes and businesses so are delighted to be a part of this cross-agency approach to dealing with the problem.”

“We are seeing increasingly heavy rainfall events which overwhelm the capital’s drainage system. This strategy outlines how we can all work together to safely manage water at a surface level to protect people, property and livelihoods.”

“As well as flood protection, this strategy will also help to make London a far greener city for everyone.”

Lilli Matson, Chief Safety, Health & Environment Officer at Transport for London, said: “Transport for London is committed to providing a climate-resilient transport network that is safe, reliable, inclusive and sustainable for our customers and colleagues.

“Any response to the future threat of flooding has to involve a wide range of agencies working in concert.

“We are proud to be a founding partner in the development of this first Surface Water Strategy for London.

“We will continue to work together with other stakeholders to share knowledge, engage with wider audiences and ensure standards pro-actively improve the capital’s resilience to climate change.

“This strategy proposes practical solutions to the problems we are facing now and takes a long-term view on how we deal with existential challenges decades down the line.”

Industry guidance also published alongside strategy

To support implementation of the strategy, webinars are being organised to address general and technical audiences.

Stakeholders can register interest by emailing SurfaceWaterGroup@london.gov.uk.

Alongside the strategy, the Greater London Authority has also published ‘Reimagining Rainwater in Highways’.

The document aims to help planning and infrastructure professionals understand how Sustainable Drainage Systems can reshape the design of highways and other public areas.

SuDS schemes are credited with benefits that include improving biodiversity, enhancing public spaces, and increasing long-term resilience.

The guidance encourages collaborative planning between local authorities and infrastructure bodies to design projects that deliver multiple benefits and safer public spaces.

London launches surface water strategy to tackle urban flooding: Summary

London has published its first strategy focused on managing surface water flooding.

The strategy was developed by Flood Ready London, which includes the Environment Agency, Mayor of London, and other partners.

It responds to flooding in 2021 that affected over 2,000 properties.

The plan introduces ten Surface Water Catchment Partnerships to implement local water management projects.

An initial £1.5 million in funding for drainage systems has been allocated.

Key agencies called for coordinated action to address the growing threat of extreme weather.

Quotes from senior figures stress the importance of collaboration and long-term planning.

Webinars and additional guidance have been launched to support strategy implementation.

The strategy also promotes SuDS as a way to increase climate resilience.

A new planning document highlights how highways can incorporate drainage to reduce flood risk.

FloodFighters at Seawork 2025 highlights flood rescue collaboration

by EventsFeatured NewsFlooding

Flood rescue operations prioritised in new Seawork 2025 initiative

Seawork has reported that a new feature titled FloodFighters@Seawork will be introduced at its 2025 exhibition in the UK, focused on strengthening flood rescue operations.

According to Seawork, the initiative will include a conference, exhibition pavilion, interactive trail and live demonstrations aimed at equipping emergency responders with access to updated knowledge and equipment for flood rescue scenarios.

The FloodFighters Conference will take place on 10 June 2025 and be chaired by Roy Harold MBE, Emeritus UK Chief Fire Officer.

UK and international response frameworks under discussion at FloodFighters Conference

Seawork stated that the conference will gather specialists to examine maritime search and rescue (SAR) challenges and responses to major flood incidents.

Topics include how climate change is expected to affect SAR capabilities, the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) flood rescue concept updates, and the Netherlands’ approach to managing widespread flood impacts.

The organisation added that the conference will include a panel session with audience Q&A and will be followed by a networking lunch.

FloodFighters Pavilion and Trail to showcase flood response technologies

Seawork explained that attendees will be able to follow a FloodFighters Trail, connecting with suppliers and rescue teams demonstrating water and flood rescue equipment and services.

The FloodFighters Pavilion will provide an area for companies to exhibit tools and technologies to professionals in emergency response.

Seawork noted that this trail is designed to help organisations access the equipment and services required to respond to rising flood incidents.

On-water demonstrations to show flood rescue in practice

The event will feature live demonstrations on the water, coordinated by Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue.

Seawork stated these displays will offer practical insights into new rescue methods and equipment relevant to flood scenarios.

The organisation said this component of FloodFighters@Seawork aims to support knowledge sharing through direct observation of techniques used in dynamic rescue conditions.

FloodFighters at Seawork 2025 highlights flood rescue collaboration: Summary

Seawork has confirmed a new initiative titled FloodFighters@Seawork for its 2025 programme.

The initiative focuses on flood rescue preparedness and includes a conference, exhibition pavilion, trail and live demonstrations.

The FloodFighters Conference will take place on 10 June 2025 and will be chaired by Roy Harold MBE, Emeritus UK Chief Fire Officer.

Conference topics include international SAR challenges, climate-related risks and updates to the UK DEFRA flood rescue framework.

The FloodFighters Trail and Pavilion will display flood and water rescue products and services.

Attendees will be able to observe on-water rescue demonstrations organised by Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue.

Seawork stated that the event will provide emergency response professionals with access to tools, techniques and networks to support flood rescue operations.

Seawork is organised by Mercator Media Ltd and will take place in Southampton, UK.

EU funding backs fire and flood protection projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland

by Featured NewsFlooding

Five countries to receive €86 million for environmental resilience

The European Commission has announced €86 million in funding for new Strategic Integrated Projects aimed at fire and flood protection, water quality improvement, and greenhouse gas reduction.

According to the Commission, the funds are being allocated through the LIFE Programme and will support projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland.

The projects were selected under the 2023 calls for proposals and are intended to help national and local governments meet EU climate and environmental targets.

Project details by country and funding breakdown

In Denmark, the LIFE ACT project will involve 27 municipalities working together to lower municipal CO₂ emissions by 75 percent and improve climate resilience along 2,900 km of coastline by 2050.

The total project cost is €28.4 million, with €17 million provided by the EU.

In Estonia, €29.9 million has been awarded to the LIFE SIP WET-EST project, which focuses on improving water quality in the Western Estonian river basin through pollution control and ecosystem restoration.

The EU will provide €17.9 million of the total project budget.

Poland’s funding of €21.9 million, including €13.1 million from the EU, will support regional recycling targets in the Pomorskie Voivodeship.

A coalition of 31 partners, including local government and academic institutions, is aiming to raise recycling to 65 percent and reduce landfill waste to 10 percent by 2035.

Slovenia and Iceland to enhance drought and water management

Slovenia’s LIFE4ADAPT project will receive €26.5 million, including €14.2 million in EU support.

The project will fund the country’s Climate Service Centre and Climate Portal, with a focus on education and risk management to address recurring droughts, forest fires and floods.

In Iceland, the LIFE ICEWATER initiative will bring together municipalities, researchers and public agencies to reduce pressure on water resources and support sustainable use.

The total project cost is €39.6 million, with the EU contributing €23.8 million.

Additional EU funding and LIFE programme context

The Commission also adopted the LIFE Programme work plan for 2025 to 2027, which outlines €2.3 billion in planned funding to support a circular economy, zero pollution, clean energy and biodiversity.

The LIFE Programme is the only dedicated EU funding scheme for climate, environmental and energy objectives and has supported over 6,000 projects since 1992.

Funding for the current Strategic Integrated Projects is part of the wider €5.43 billion LIFE budget set under the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework.

EU prepares next round of LIFE calls for 2025

The Commission has announced that the next round of LIFE Programme calls for proposals will open on 24 April 2025.

According to the Commission, virtual information sessions will be held from 13 to 15 May 2025 to assist applicants.

Water resilience was highlighted as a priority in a recent call for evidence, which the Commission said identified widespread degradation and poor water management across the EU.

CINEA, the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency, will continue managing the LIFE Programme and facilitating project implementation.

EU funding backs fire and flood protection projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland: Summary

The European Commission has awarded €86 million under the LIFE Programme for environmental projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland.

The funding will support water quality improvements, emission reductions and climate resilience.

Denmark’s project aims to reduce CO₂ by 75 percent and protect 2,900 km of coastline.

Estonia will improve the Western Estonian river basin.

Poland will target 65 percent recycling and cut landfill waste to 10 percent by 2035.

Slovenia will strengthen drought, fire and flood management.

Iceland will enhance sustainable water use.

The Commission also approved the 2025–2027 LIFE Programme plan with a €2.3 billion budget.

New calls for proposals will launch on 24 April 2025.

CINEA will host virtual sessions in May 2025 to support applicants.

Emergency planning and flood resilience measures in the UAE

by Breaking NewsFloodingMiddle East - Breaking News

UAE enhances emergency planning and flood defences in preparation for increased rainfall

Serco has reported that the United Arab Emirates is updating its emergency planning strategies as it prepares for an expected increase in rainfall over the next decade.

Daniel MacGregor, Chief Growth Officer at Serco, said recent extreme weather events in Dubai highlighted the challenges of managing sudden flooding despite preventative measures already in place.

He stated: “Dubai’s floods that took place one year ago demonstrated the complexities of managing extreme weather events, even with significant measures already in place.”

MacGregor explained that although emergency services responded to the situation, gaps in coordination and communication emerged due to the scale of the flooding and the region’s limited experience handling such conditions.

Flood awareness and public communication highlighted as critical

MacGregor identified public communication and awareness as essential components of future emergency planning in the UAE.

He said: “Public awareness campaigns play a vital role in supporting these preparations.

“Ensuring residents understand flood risks and safety protocols can help communities respond more effectively during emergencies.”

He referenced the United Kingdom’s Flood Mary campaign as a possible model for the UAE, highlighting its role in providing clear advice on property protection and personal safety during flood events.

Infrastructure and inter-agency coordination seen as key priorities

Serco’s report emphasised that sustained infrastructure investment and improved coordination between agencies would be necessary to reduce the impact of future floods.

MacGregor stated: “To further mitigate flooding risks, continued investment in infrastructure and advanced risk assessments are essential.”

He added that collaboration between multiple agencies, supported by joint testing and exercises, can strengthen response times and improve operational efficiency.

Role of private sector in building national resilience

MacGregor also highlighted the potential contributions of private sector organisations to national preparedness efforts.

He explained that insurance companies could support property resilience by offering products that incentivise flood-resistant design.

He also noted that advisory companies such as +impact, backed by Serco’s experience in global disaster management, could provide strategic support in areas such as professional deployment, response plan optimisation and service delivery tailored to regional requirements.

He said: “Private companies also have a role to play, from contributing expertise to providing services that bolster resilience.”

UAE enhances emergency planning and flood defences in preparation for increased rainfall: Summary

Serco has reported that the UAE is making adjustments to its emergency planning frameworks in response to projections of increased rainfall over the next 10 years.

Daniel MacGregor, Chief Growth Officer at Serco, cited the 2024 Dubai floods as an example of how extreme weather can strain response systems.

He said public awareness campaigns and improved communication during crises are needed to strengthen preparedness.

MacGregor noted that continued investment in flood defences and inter-agency coordination through joint exercises would improve response efficiency.

He also stated that the private sector can support national resilience through insurance offerings and advisory services.

Serco suggested the UAE’s strategy should include infrastructure upgrades, public education and collaboration with international experts.

Flood rescue operations in focus at Seawork 2025 FloodFighters conference

by EventsFeatured NewsFloodingSearch and Rescue

FloodFighters to bring flood response into focus at Seawork

Seawork has announced the launch of FloodFighters@Seawork for 2025.

According to Seawork, the new programme will include a dedicated pavilion, conference, and on-the-water demonstrations centred on improving flood rescue efforts.

FloodFighters will open with a conference on 10 June 2025, led by Roy Harold MBE, Emeritus UK Chief Fire Officer.

The conference will include panels and Q&A sessions with sector representatives discussing operational and strategic challenges in maritime search and rescue (SAR), particularly those linked to climate change and increasing flood events.

Sessions will include an update on the UK Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Flood rescue concept of operations, as well as input from Dutch representatives on large-scale flood response and ongoing work in that area.

Speakers to address climate impact and operational strategies

The FloodFighters Conference will begin at 09:30 on 10 June 2025 and conclude at 13:30.

Speakers are expected to present on topics including SAR obstacles connected to extreme weather events, best practices for future operations, and how nations respond after fatal flood incidents.

A dedicated session will explore developments in DEFRA’s asset register and updated guidance for UK flood response teams.

A networking lunch will follow the conference from 13:30 to 14:15.

FloodFighters Trail and Pavilion to showcase flood rescue solutions

Seawork will host a FloodFighters Pavilion where organisations can exhibit equipment and services to an audience of maritime professionals.

Visitors will also be able to follow a dedicated FloodFighters Trail across the venue.

The trail will display a range of flood and water rescue tools and technologies from manufacturers and response organisations.

Exhibitors will be present to engage with attendees and explain how their tools support operational readiness.

Demonstrations to show live flood rescue techniques

Live rescue demonstrations will take place on the water during FloodFighters@Seawork.

These sessions will be conducted by Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue.

The demonstrations are intended to show current techniques and equipment in use for flood and water rescues.

Attendees will be able to observe how this equipment functions in practical situations.

Flood rescue operations in focus at Seawork 2025 FloodFighters conference: Summary

Seawork will introduce FloodFighters@Seawork in 2025.

The feature will include a conference, pavilion, and on-the-water rescue demonstrations.

The FloodFighters Conference is scheduled for 10 June 2025 and will be chaired by Roy Harold MBE.

Discussions will address challenges in maritime SAR operations, the effects of climate change, and updates from the UK and Netherlands on flood response.

A networking lunch will follow the conference.

The FloodFighters Pavilion and Trail will allow visitors to engage with manufacturers and responders presenting flood rescue tools and technology.

Live-action demonstrations from Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue will also be included.

Seawork is organising the event.

Nigeria’s emergency agencies assess 2025 flood risk strategies

by Featured NewsFlooding

Stakeholders meet to evaluate Nigeria’s flood preparedness

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) recently convened a stakeholders’ forum to analyse the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

The forum aims to assess flood risks and determine early mitigation strategies.

NEMA’s Director General, Zubaida Umar, highlighted the need for multi-sectoral collaboration in preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

She stated: “The climate challenges last year raised significant questions about our ability to respond efficiently to evolving disaster trends and impacts.” She added that evaluating past humanitarian response activities would help agencies improve their strategies.

Analysis of 2024 disaster response efforts

Umar explained that the forum was designed to assess preparedness, mitigation, and response activities undertaken in 2024 at the federal, state, and local government levels.

She stated: “We need to understand what happened, why it happened, what we did correctly, and identify gaps to enhance our performance.”

The discussions will inform adjustments to climate disaster preparedness strategies for 2025.

Umar noted that the insights would support early messaging and decision-making for authorities at all levels.

Collaboration with UNICEF on hazard risk analysis

NEMA’s Director General further mentioned that the agency, in partnership with UNICEF, had conducted a hazard risk analysis for Nigeria.

She stated that the findings would be simplified and shared with stakeholders to strengthen disaster preparedness measures.

The forum also reviewed how SCP data could be used to refine emergency response planning, ensuring authorities take proactive measures against climate-related disasters.

Sector-wide participation in disaster preparedness planning

Director of Planning, Research, and Forecasting at NEMA, Dr.

Onimode Abdullahi Bandele, noted that representatives from key sectors, including agriculture, health, transport, power, and water resources, were engaged in discussions.

He stated that collective efforts were necessary to manage climate-induced disasters.

Participants included representatives from State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and the Nigerian Military, alongside university-based disaster risk management experts.

Some attendees delivered goodwill messages, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the forum’s objectives.

NEMA reviews 2025 climate predictions to strengthen flood preparedness: Summary

NEMA organised a stakeholders’ forum to review the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) from NiMet and discuss flood risk management strategies.

The agency’s Director General, Zubaida Umar, stressed the importance of multi-sectoral cooperation in disaster preparedness.

She noted that reviewing past response efforts would help agencies identify gaps and improve strategies.

The discussions covered an analysis of preparedness, mitigation, and response actions taken in 2024.

Umar stated that early planning and messaging would enable federal, state, and local authorities to take timely action.

NEMA also highlighted a recent hazard risk analysis conducted with UNICEF, which aims to provide stakeholders with data-driven insights.

Participants from government agencies, emergency management bodies, and academic institutions contributed to the discussions, with representatives from multiple sectors examining how climate disaster preparedness could be strengthened.

Fire Brigades Union urges government to establish statutory flood response duty

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Image Credit: Fire Brigades Union

Leicestershire flood response prompts union call for government action

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has urged the government to implement a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England to respond to flooding.

According to the FBU, this change would ensure central funding for flood resilience and response.

The union’s call follows a major incident in Leicestershire, where firefighters responded to 160 flood-related incidents after widespread flooding across the county.

Firefighters rescue 59 people during major incident in Leicestershire

Leicestershire firefighters conducted 59 rescues on Monday, responding to over 200 calls.

The FBU described these rescues as a “wake-up call” for the government.

Unlike other parts of the UK, fire services in England are not legally obligated to respond to floods, leaving services reliant on limited resources.

FBU highlights funding and resource challenges

FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack emphasised the strain on services, stating: “Firefighters continue to work tirelessly to save lives and protect communities from devastating flooding.”

Wrack further highlighted the impact of budget cuts and called for formal recognition of firefighters’ role in flood response.

The union insists that central funding and resources are essential to handle future flood emergencies effectively.

Letter to Home Secretary calls for immediate action

In November, the FBU wrote to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, urging the government to address the issue.

The union called for investment in flood resilience and the introduction of a statutory duty for English fire services.

Wrack added: “Ministers must act now to implement a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England with the funding and resources urgently needed.”

Fire Brigades Union calls for statutory flood response duty in England: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has called for the government to introduce a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England to respond to flooding.

The FBU’s appeal follows severe flooding in Leicestershire, where firefighters carried out 59 rescues in a single day.

Currently, fire services in England lack a statutory obligation to respond to floods, limiting central government funding for flood preparedness.

The union argues that recognising this role is essential to secure resources and protect communities.