The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a severe thunderstorm advisory valid from 3:22 p.m. to 9:22 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, affecting residents of 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The alert follows the detection of severe thunderstorm cells over parts of Chad Republic, Borno, and Adamawa states, with conditions expected to push westward over the next one to six hours.
States at Risk and Weather Hazards
According to NiMet, the advancing weather system could reach Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, and the FCT before the advisory period expires. The agency identified multiple hazards associated with the incoming conditions, including strong winds capable of displacing unsecured outdoor objects, bringing down tree branches, or damaging weak structures.
Moderate rainfall was expected to reduce visibility on roads, creating difficult and slippery driving conditions. NiMet also warned that lightning poses a direct risk to both people and property, while flash flooding remains a concern in low-lying or vulnerable communities. Aviation operations could be disrupted by the adverse conditions, the agency added.
Safety Advice for Residents and Motorists
NiMet urged people in the affected states to secure loose items outside their homes before the storms arrive and to stay away from open fields and tall trees while thunderstorms are active. Motorists were told to slow down and drive with extra care due to reduced visibility and wet road surfaces, and residents were advised to unplug electrical appliances where possible.
Farmers were specifically cautioned against applying fertilisers or pesticides just before rainfall, as such applications would likely be washed away and wasted. Airline operators were directed to request airport-specific weather reports directly from NiMet to guide their flight planning decisions.
Full List of Affected States
NiMet listed the following states and the FCT as potentially affected: Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, and the FCT. The agency called on the general public to keep monitoring its official forecasts and weather alerts for any updates as the situation develops.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the federal government issued an alert to residents in 11 states regarding the imminent release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conducted a flood simulation exercise in Adamawa state to strengthen preparedness and response to potential flooding. NEMA director-general Zubaida Umar, represented at the exercise by the director of search and rescue, Air Commodore B. A. Usman, said it was commendable that Nigeria no longer waits for disasters to occur before taking preventive measures.
