Analysis of Extreme Rainfall Events and Their Consequences in Makurdi, Benue State

Extreme rainfall events are increasingly frequent across tropical West Africa, posing severe risks to infrastructure, livelihoods, and human safety. This study analyzes the characteristics of extreme rainfall events in Makurdi, Benue State, and documents their socioeconomic consequences using daily rainfall records from the NiMet Makurdi synoptic station spanning 2015 to 2023. Extreme events were defined using the 90th and 95th percentile thresholds as well as absolute thresholds recommended by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI). Trend analysis using the Mann-Kendall test was applied to the frequency and intensity of identified extreme events. Results indicate a statistically significant increase in the frequency of events exceeding 50 millimetres per day, with the highest daily rainfall total of 187 millimetres recorded in August 2022 triggering extensive urban flooding. Impact assessments conducted through structured interviews and photographic documentation in Wadata and North Bank neighborhoods confirm recurring damage to residential buildings, road infrastructure, and agricultural plots. The study highlights the inadequacy of existing urban drainage infrastructure in accommodating intensifying rainfall extremes. Recommendations include revision of urban drainage design standards to reflect updated rainfall intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) curves and establishment of a community-based flood monitoring network. Keywords: extreme rainfall, Makurdi, flooding, ETCCDI, urban drainage.