NiMet Warns of Flash Floods in 13 States, Advises Residents to Prepare

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned residents of 13 states about the possibility of flash floods between August 11 and 20, 2026.

NiMet issued the warning in an advisory released on Tuesday, identifying Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom as states at high risk of flash flooding during the period.

The agency said the assessment was based on forecast rainfall intensity, prevailing soil moisture conditions, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics.

According to NiMet, the advisory is intended to serve as an early warning and decision-support tool to support proactive preparedness, emergency response planning and disaster risk reduction.

It warned that flash flooding could occur particularly in flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities, with potential consequences including traffic congestion, road closures and disruptions to transportation.

The agency also cautioned that flooding could temporarily disrupt electricity and telecommunications services, while heavy rainfall could reduce visibility and affect motorists and aviation operations.

NiMet further warned that waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops and livestock, while floodwaters could cause damage to roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure.

It added that stagnant floodwaters could increase the risk of waterborne diseases, urging residents in vulnerable communities to take precautionary measures.

The weather agency advised residents to regularly monitor weather forecasts and flood alerts issued by NiMet and relevant emergency management authorities.

It urged the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing water, and advised people living in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and be prepared to relocate to safer locations when necessary.

NiMet also called on emergency management agencies to intensify surveillance, pre-position response teams and strengthen emergency preparedness in areas identified as being at risk.

Farmers were advised to improve drainage around their farms and relocate livestock, farm machinery and harvested produce from flood-prone locations.

The agency further urged authorities to prioritise vulnerable communities for impact-based monitoring, public awareness campaigns and rapid dissemination of early warnings.

NiMet stressed that preparedness should be maintained even in areas with lower flood probability, noting that flash floods can develop rapidly during periods of intense rainfall.