Abstract

This study investigated the assessment of flood vulnerability in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling and simple random sampling techniques provided the sampling framework for administration of 400 questionnaires across the entire sampling/spatial unit. Descriptive statistics, 5-points and 3-points Likert scale framework were deployed in data analyses and presentation. The study found that inadequate drainage network, lack of proper planning, overflow of river(s), construction work in the area and lack of effective legislation were most perceived factors of flooding in Yenagoa. Similarly, sickness/water borne diseases, blockage of access road(s), destruction of shrines/sacred areas as well as reduction in business income, slow down development activities and displacement of families were the most perceived effects of flooding in Yenagoa. Besides, looking for alternative source of livelihood/ income, construction of drains/drainages, forming of local groups in order to address the issue, the use of sand bags and dependent on government support were the most adopted flood coping strategies across the communities assessed in Yenagoa. The study recommended that there should be immediate construction of earth dams to trap excess water. Also, mitigation measures such as good drainage system, proper waste management systems should be highly promoted. This will go a long way in enhancing community resilience and drastically reduce flood vulnerability.

Key Words: Assessment, Flood, Vulnerability, Disaster