NIGERIAN Meteorological Agency has warned that 19 states across the country may experience flash flooding as heavy early rains intensify in several parts of Nigeria.
In an advisory sent to News Point Nigeria on Thursday, NiMet explained that increased surface runoff and flash flooding could occur during heavy rainfall because dry and hardened soils may prevent water from properly soaking into the ground.
The agency identified the states likely to be affected as 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 anticipated impacts of the flooding include submerged roads, traffic disruption, destruction of homes, farmlands and infrastructure, blocked drainage systems, power outages, telecommunication disruptions, and heightened risks of injuries and water-borne diseases.
The agency advised residents in vulnerable areas to clear blocked drainages and remain updated with weather forecasts and flood alerts.
NiMet also cautioned motorists and pedestrians against driving or walking through flooded areas to avoid accidents and loss of lives.
In addition, the agency urged relevant authorities and stakeholders to strengthen coordination, preparedness and emergency response measures aimed at reducing flood-related risks across affected communities.
“An informed community is a prepared community. Know the risks and act early,” the advisory stated.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government had earlier warned that 14,118 communities across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory are at risk of severe flooding in 2026.
The states identified by the government include Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna and Kano.
Others are Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
