By Sandra Kenneth
A relentless 12-hour downpour on Thursday, July 16, 2026, brought economic and vehicular activities in Port Harcourt and its environs to a near-standstill, with major roads submerged and several residents displaced.
Reports monitored by ExceedFM show that the prolonged rain hit the Nkpolu community in Obio/Akpor LGA particularly hard. Rising floodwaters forced business owners to shut down, while homeowners were seen scrambling to salvage their belongings.
Hard-Hit Areas
In Obio/Akpor LGA, the situation was severe around the Obi-Wali area in Rumuigbo, near Eckankar Road, where motorists had to turn back due to the severe flooding and roads in terrible condition.
Commuters in Choba were stranded for hours after the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) church section of the road was completely overtaken by water. Other affected areas include Rumuagholu and Orowo community.
In PHALGA, key commercial hubs were also disrupted. Peter Odili Road, Ozuboko, and the busy Ikoku spare parts market all recorded severe flooding that halted trading activities.
Beyond the state capital, Oyigbo LGA reportedly recorded some of the worst flooding, with vast residential zones submerged.
Call To Action
ExceedFM urges government agencies and the Rivers State Ministry of Environment to urgently deploy emergency teams to clear blocked drainage systems and fast-track repairs on failing road infrastructure.
Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas are advised to:
Clear drainage and gutters around their homes
Secure valuable property
Avoid driving or walking through flooded roads to prevent loss of life or property
The Rivers State Government is yet to issue an official statement on relief measures for displaced residents.
This is a developing story. ExceedFM will bring you updates.
