The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flood advisory covering 13 states across Nigeria, warning of a significant risk of flash floods between August 11 and 20, 2026. The affected states include Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.
Forecast and Risk Factors
NiMet posted the advisory on its official X handle, stating that the forecast was derived from an assessment of rainfall intensity, soil moisture levels, drainage capacity, terrain features, and dam characteristics across the listed areas, as reported by Daily Trust. The agency said flash floods were most likely to strike low-lying areas, flood-prone communities, urban centres, and riverside settlements.
The advisory highlighted several potential impacts, including road closures, traffic disruptions, and interruptions to electricity supply and telecommunications networks. Heavy rainfall could also reduce visibility on roads and affect aviation operations.
Impact on Agriculture and Health
For farmers, NiMet warned that waterlogging posed a serious threat to crops, farmlands, and livestock. Flooding could also damage roads, bridges, and drainage infrastructure. Stagnant floodwater, the agency added, raises the risk of waterborne diseases spreading among affected communities.
NiMet urged residents in vulnerable communities to monitor weather forecasts and alerts from both the agency and local emergency management authorities. It specifically advised against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges, or fast-moving water.
Safety Advice for Residents and Farmers
People living in high-risk areas were told to stay alert and be ready to relocate to safer ground if conditions deteriorate. The agency also called on emergency management authorities to strengthen surveillance operations, deploy response teams in advance, and maintain a state of readiness throughout the period.
Farmers received separate recommendations, including improving drainage on their land and moving livestock, equipment, and harvested produce away from flood-prone areas before conditions worsen. The advisory was described by the agency as a tool to support early preparedness, emergency response planning, and disaster risk reduction across the named states.
In a related development, Legit.ng reported that NiMet forecast a three-day mix of thunderstorms, rain, hazy skies, and sunshine across various parts of Nigeria. The agency had earlier in February said northern states would largely experience sunny conditions, while central regions may see haze with isolated thunderstorms in southern Kwara, Kogi, Benue, and surrounding areas during the forecast period.
