The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that 19 states across Nigeria may experience flash flooding in the coming days following forecasts of heavy early rains and severe surface runoff.
In its latest weather advisory, the agency cautioned that the risk of flooding is expected to increase because dry and hardened soils may be unable to absorb large volumes of rainfall, resulting in rapid water accumulation and flash floods.
Key Highlights:
•NiMet warns of possible flash flooding in 19 Nigerian states
•Delta, Rivers, Lagos, Bayelsa and Ogun among states at risk
•Heavy rainfall and hardened soil conditions blamed for flood threat
•Agency warns of road flooding, power outages and disease outbreaks
•Residents advised to clear drainages and avoid flooded areas
The states identified as vulnerable to the anticipated flooding include Zamfara, Nasarawa, Kwara, Oyo, Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti, Delta, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Ondo and Bayelsa.
According to NiMet, the expected flash floods could trigger widespread disruptions, including flooded roads, heavy traffic congestion, destruction of homes and farmlands, blocked drainage systems and damage to critical infrastructure.
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The agency also warned of possible power outages, telecommunication disruptions, increased risk of injuries and the spread of water-borne diseases in affected communities.
Residents in vulnerable areas were advised to take precautionary measures by clearing blocked drainages around homes and communities while staying updated through official weather and flood alerts.
NiMet further cautioned motorists and pedestrians against driving or walking through flooded roads and waterways to avoid accidents and loss of life.
The agency urged emergency management agencies, state governments and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen preparedness, coordination and rapid response mechanisms to minimise the impact of the expected floods.
The latest warning follows an earlier alert by the Federal Government indicating that about 14,118 communities across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory are at risk of severe flooding in 2026.
