The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that 27 states, including Lagos, Rivers, Oyo and Bayelsa, face an increased risk of flash flooding between July 1 and July 10 as the country enters the peak of the rainy season.
The agency issued the alert in its Flash Flood Risk Advisory for the first dekad of July, attributing the heightened risk to persistent rainfall in June, which it said had left soils heavily saturated.
Why flooding risk is increasing
According to NiMet, saturated soils are now less capable of absorbing additional rainfall, increasing the likelihood of flash floods, particularly in vulnerable locations.
The agency said:
“Following widespread rainfall recorded across many parts of Nigeria in June, soils have become heavily saturated, reducing their ability to absorb additional rainfall.
“As July marks the beginning of the peak rainy season, the risk of flash flooding is expected to increase, particularly in low-lying, urban, coastal and poorly drained areas.”
States listed in the flood alert
NiMet identified the following states as being at risk of flash flooding during the period:
- Taraba
- Sokoto
- Borno
- Zamfara
- Kebbi
- Katsina
- Kaduna
- Nasarawa
- Plateau
- Adamawa
- Kwara
- Kogi
- Oyo
- Ogun
- Lagos
- Osun
- Ekiti
- Delta
- Edo
- Abia
- Imo
- Anambra
- Enugu
- Akwa Ibom
- Cross River
- Rivers
- Bayelsa
Possible impact of the flooding
NiMet warned that heavy rainfall could result in:
- Flash flooding in low-lying and poorly drained communities.
- Temporary power and telecommunications disruptions.
- Reduced visibility for motorists and aviation operations.
- Waterlogging of farmlands and possible crop losses.
- Damage to roads, bridges, drainage systems and other public infrastructure.
- Increased risk of waterborne diseases linked to stagnant floodwaters.
NiMet advises residents to take precautions
The agency urged Nigerians to remain alert and comply with official weather advisories.
It advised residents to:
- Monitor NiMet weather forecasts and flood advisories.
- Clear drains, gutters and waterways to allow free flow of water.
- Secure loose outdoor items and reinforce vulnerable structures.
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
NiMet also called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen emergency preparedness and response efforts.
The agency stressed that early planning and timely action remain the most effective ways to reduce the impact of flash flooding…See More
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