The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (Nimet) has warned residents of 13 states of possible flash flooding between August 11 and 20, 2026.
NiMet issued the alert 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 floods during the period.
The agency said its assessment is based on several factors, including forecast rainfall intensity, prevailing soil moisture conditions, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics.
NiMet described the advisory as an early-warning and decision-support tool designed to support proactive preparedness, emergency response planning and disaster-risk reduction.
According to the agency, localised flash flooding could occur particularly in flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities.
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It warned that intense rainfall could result in traffic congestion, road closures and transport disruptions, while electricity and telecommunications services could also experience temporary interruptions.
The agency further cautioned that heavy rainfall could reduce visibility for motorists and affect aviation operations.
Beyond transportation and public infrastructure, NiMet said flooding and prolonged waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops and livestock.
It also warned that flash floods could destroy roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure, while stagnant floodwater could increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
NiMet urged residents to closely monitor weather forecasts and flood advisories issued by the agency and relevant emergency management authorities.
Residents in vulnerable communities were advised to remain alert and be prepared to relocate to safer areas where necessary.
The agency specifically warned the public against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges or fast-flowing water, stressing that flash floods can develop rapidly during periods of intense rainfall.
NiMet also called on emergency management agencies to strengthen surveillance, pre-position response teams and maintain adequate emergency preparedness throughout the period.
Farmers in the affected states were advised to improve drainage around their farms and move livestock, agricultural machinery and harvested produce away from areas prone to flooding.
The agency urged authorities to prioritise vulnerable communities for impact-based monitoring, public sensitisation and rapid dissemination of weather warnings.
“Preparedness should be maintained even in areas with lower flood probability, as flash flooding can develop rapidly during intense rainfall,” NiMet said.
