The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has alerted residents in 13 states to the possibility of flash flooding between August 11 and 20, 2026, urging communities and relevant authorities to take precautionary measures.
According to the agency on Tuesday, the states identified as having a high flash flood risk are Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom.
NiMet said the advisory was based on several factors, including forecast rainfall intensity, prevailing soil moisture conditions, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics.
According to the agency, the outlook is intended to serve as an early warning and decision-support tool to support proactive preparedness, emergency response planning and disaster risk reduction.
NiMet warned that intense rainfall could trigger localised flash flooding, particularly in flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities.
It noted that possible consequences include road closures, traffic congestion, transport disruptions, temporary interruptions to electricity and telecommunications services, reduced visibility for motorists and aviation operations, as well as damage to roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure.
The agency also warned that farmlands could suffer waterlogging, potentially affecting crops and livestock, while stagnant floodwaters could increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
NiMet advised residents to regularly monitor weather forecasts and flood advisories issued by the agency and relevant emergency management authorities.
It urged the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing water, while calling on residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and be prepared to relocate to safer locations where necessary.
The agency further advised communities to keep drains, culverts and waterways clear to facilitate the free flow of stormwater.
It called on emergency management agencies to strengthen surveillance, pre-position response teams and maintain a high level of preparedness.
Farmers were also advised to improve drainage on their farms and move livestock, machinery and harvested produce away from flood-prone areas.
NiMet urged authorities to prioritise vulnerable communities for impact-based monitoring, public sensitisation and rapid dissemination of early warnings.
The agency stressed that preparedness should be maintained even in areas with lower flood probability, noting that flash floods can develop rapidly during periods of intense rainfall.
