IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

International Journal of Engineering and Modern Technology (IJEMT )

E-ISSN 2504-8848
P-ISSN 2695-2149
VOL. 11 NO. 2 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijemt.vol.11.no2.

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Flooding Areas in Port Harcourt Metropolis: Vulnerability to Perennial Pluvial Flooding Experience

OkeyEjiowhor, Caleb H, Pepple, Tonye D. PhD and Edwin, Anthony D. PhD

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Abstract

Perennial pluvial flooding presents significant challenges to the urban environment of Port Harcourt Metropolis, impacting infrastructure, public health, and overall urban functionality. This study examined flooding areas in Port Harcourt Metropolis: Vulnerability to perennial pluvial flooding experience. Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) Theory guided the theoretical framework of this study. The methodology integrates both primary and secondary data sources. With a population of 1,416, a sample frame of 708, and a sample size of 512 determined using the Taro Yamane method, the study employed field observations, surveys, and statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics. Additionally, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to identify flood-prone areas within the metropolis. The findings highlight highly vulnerable areas, such as Rumuewhara New Layout/Eneka (elevation 17.1m) and NTA/Apara Link Road (elevation 13.5m), where floodwaters can reach depths of up to 200mm. Over 90% of respondents identified streets in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area (LGA) as the most affected in the metropolis. Moderately and low-flooded areas display community-driven mitigation efforts, such as flood barriers, but government strategies are found to be lacking. The study recommends a comprehensive Flood Resilient Design Framework (FRDF) involving a multi-faceted approach to mitigate perennial pluvial floods in Port Harcourt Metropolis, including architectural adaptations, urban planning and policy changes, community engagement, and infrastructure development.

keywords:

Flooding Areas, Port Harcourt Metropolis, Vulnerability, Perennial Pluvial, Flooding

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