NiMet has warned that 19 states across Nigeria may witness flash flooding in the coming days due to heavy early rains and poor soil absorption.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that 19 states across the country may experience flash flooding in the coming days due to expected heavy early rains. In an advisory issued on Thursday, the agency explained that the risk of flooding is heightened because dry and hardened soils would prevent water from soaking properly into the ground, leading to increased surface runoff.
States likely to be affected include Zamfara State, Nasarawa State, Kwara State, Oyo State, Lagos State, Ogun State, Ekiti State, Delta State, Imo State, Anambra State, Enugu State, Ebonyi State, Akwa Ibom State, Cross River State, Rivers State, Edo State, Ondo State and Bayelsa State. According to NiMet, the floods could lead to submerged roads, traffic disruptions, destruction of homes and farmlands, blocked drainage systems, power outages, telecommunication disruptions and increased risks of injuries and water-borne diseases.
The agency advised residents to clear blocked drainages around their homes and remain updated with official weather and flood alerts. It also cautioned motorists and pedestrians against driving or walking through flooded areas while urging relevant authorities and stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and emergency response mechanisms. The warning follows a recent alert by the Federal Government that 14,118 communities in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory are at risk of severe flooding in 2026.
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