The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has warned that 27 states across Nigeria are at risk of experiencing flash flooding between July 1 and July 10 as the country enters the peak of the rainy season.

According to NiMet's latest flash flood risk alert, persistent rainfall in June has left soils heavily saturated, reducing their ability to absorb additional rainfall and increasing the likelihood of flooding, particularly in low-lying, urban, coastal and poorly drained areas.

States at risk

The agency identified the following states as being vulnerable to flash flooding during the period:

Taraba State
Sokoto State
Borno State
Zamfara State
Kebbi State
Katsina State
Kaduna State
Nasarawa State
Plateau State
Adamawa State
Kwara State
Kogi State
Oyo State
Ogun State
Lagos State
Osun State
Ekiti State
Delta State
Edo State
Abia State
Imo State
Anambra State
Enugu State
Akwa Ibom State
Cross River State
Rivers State
Bayelsa State

Possible impacts

NiMet warned that the expected flooding could lead to:

Temporary electricity and telecommunications disruptions.
Poor visibility affecting motorists and aviation operations.
Waterlogging of farmlands and possible crop losses.
Damage to roads, bridges, drainage systems and other infrastructure.
Increased risk of waterborne diseases due to stagnant floodwaters.

Safety advice

The agency urged residents to:

Monitor NiMet weather forecasts and flood advisories.
Keep drains, gutters and waterways free of refuse.
Secure loose outdoor items and reinforce vulnerable structures.
Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters.

NiMet also called on the National Emergency Management Agency, State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and emergency response efforts.

The agency emphasized that early preparation and timely action remain the most effective ways to reduce the impact of flash flooding during the peak rainy season.

NiMet warns 27 states face flash flood risk in early July

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