Lagos, Rivers, Zamfara, 24 Other States Will Face Flood Risk In Ten Days— NiMet Warns
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flash flood alert for 27 states, warning that widespread rainfall expected between July 1 and July 10 could trigger flooding as the country enters the peak of the rainy season.
In an advisory released on Sunday, the agency attributed the heightened flood risk to persistent rainfall recorded in June, saying the downpours have left soils heavily saturated and unable to absorb additional precipitation.
According to NiMet, the development significantly increases the likelihood of flash floods, particularly in low-lying, urban, coastal and poorly drained communities.
“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,” the agency said.
NiMet identified the states at risk as 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 and Bayelsa.
The agency warned that the expected heavy rainfall could disrupt transportation, damage infrastructure, affect agriculture and public utilities, and increase public health risks.
It said flooding could result in traffic congestion, road closures and major disruptions to transportation networks across affected areas.
NiMet also cautioned that temporary power outages and telecommunications disruptions could occur, while reduced visibility during intense rainfall may pose hazards to motorists and aviation operations.
The agency further warned that waterlogging of farmlands could lead to crop losses, while roads, bridges, drainage systems and other public infrastructure may sustain significant damage.
It also urged health authorities to remain on alert over the heightened risk of waterborne diseases associated with stagnant floodwaters and poor sanitation conditions.
To reduce the impact of the anticipated flooding, NiMet advised residents to monitor weather forecasts and flash flood advisories, clear drains, gutters and waterways of refuse, secure loose outdoor objects, reinforce vulnerable structures and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
The agency also called on State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and emergency response efforts.
Emphasising the importance of proactive measures, NiMet said early planning and timely action remain critical to reducing the devastating effects of flash floods.
“Early preparedness and timely action remain essential in reducing the impacts of flash flooding,” the agency stated.
It concluded by urging Nigerians to remain vigilant, saying, “An informed community is a prepared community. Know the risks and Act Early.”