Analysis of the Relationships of Urbanization dynamics and Incidences of Urban Flood Disaster in Gombe Metropolis

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to critically analyze the relationships of urbanization dynamics and incidences of flood disaster in Gombe metropolis, Nigeria. Flood is a peculiar phenomenon to cities, urban centers and villages that lie along major rivers, delta regions and coastal areas. Generally, it is attributed to global warming, climate change, ocean swell/surge and torrential rains. Gombe is a landlocked town which lies within the savannah region of Nigeria. Ironically, there has been a phenomenal increase in the incidences of flood in Gombe over the years. In this research work, the survey research design was used to obtain data from the field. Stratified sampling technique was adopted in determining the study sample which consisted of 250 households (i.e. 13% of the population, consisting of 1,923 households in flood prone areas of the metropolis). 250 questionnaires were administered to household heads in the study area; however, only 237 questionnaires were retrieved and used for analysis. Spearman’s rank correlation and multiple linear regressions were used in the analysis of the data collected. The study showed that urbanization dynamics is the major factor responsible for flood incidences in Gombe metropolis (r = 0.805, P = 0.000). It was recommended among others, that effective countermeasures to combat the issue of flood in the study area require the contribution of all stakeholders. The town planners and property developers, supported by the legislative and executive powers, should direct the urban development in Gombe and also intervene in the urbanization process with the aim of achieving ecological sustainability.

Keywords: Urbanization, flood, urbanization dynamics, disaster, sustainability