The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flash flood warning for Rivers, Bayelsa and 25 other states, cautioning that intensified rainfall during the first 10 days of July could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities.
In an advisory covering July 1 to July 10, the agency said the country is entering the peak of the rainy season, with soils already saturated following widespread rainfall recorded in June, significantly increasing the risk of flash floods.
NiMet explained that the saturated ground has drastically reduced the soil’s capacity to absorb additional rainfall, making low-lying, coastal, urban and poorly drained areas particularly susceptible to flooding.
The states identified as being at risk are Rivers, Bayelsa, Lagos, Ogun, Delta, Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Taraba, Sokoto, Borno, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, Adamawa, Kwara, Kogi, Oyo, Osun and Ekiti.
The agency warned that heavy rainfall could disrupt transportation through traffic congestion and road closures, while also causing temporary power and telecommunications outages in affected areas.
It added that poor visibility during intense downpours could endanger motorists and aviation operations.
NiMet also expressed concern over the likely impact on agriculture, warning that waterlogged farmlands could lead to crop losses, while roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure may suffer significant damage.
The agency further cautioned that stagnant floodwaters could heighten the risk of waterborne diseases, urging health authorities to remain vigilant.
To reduce the impact of the anticipated floods, NiMet advised residents to monitor weather forecasts and flood advisories, clear drains and waterways of refuse, secure loose outdoor items, reinforce vulnerable structures and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
The agency also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), community leaders and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and emergency response measures.
NiMet stressed that early planning and timely action remain critical to reducing the devastating impact of flash flooding, urging Nigerians to remain alert throughout the period. “An informed community is a prepared community. Know the risks and act early,” the agency said.