The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flash flood risk alert for 27 out of Nigeria's 36 states, warning that widespread rainfall between July 1 and 10 could trigger flooding as the country enters the peak of the rainy season.
Heavy June rains saturate soils, raising flood risk
In a statement released on Sunday, July 5, NiMet attributed the heightened risk to persistent rainfall in June, which has left soils across much of the country unable to absorb additional precipitation. The agency said: “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.”
States at risk: Taraba to Bayelsa
The states likely to experience flash flooding include: 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.
Potential impacts: power outages, crop losses, health risks
NiMet warned that “temporary power and telecommunications outages may occur in affected areas, while poor visibility during intense rainfall could pose risks to motorists and aviation operations.” The forecast also highlighted potential waterlogging of farmlands with possible crop losses, as well as damage to roads, bridges, drainage infrastructure and other public facilities. Health officials were urged to remain vigilant over the increased risk of waterborne diseases associated with stagnant floodwaters and poor sanitation.
NiMet urges preventive measures
To minimise the impact, NiMet advised the public to: follow weather forecasts and flash flood advisories; keep drains, gutters and waterways free of refuse; secure loose outdoor objects and reinforce vulnerable structures; and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. The agency also called on emergency management authorities to step up preparedness, stating: “SEMAs, NEMA, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders should strengthen preparedness and response measures.” It stressed that proactive planning remains the most effective way to reduce the devastating effects of flash flooding, adding: “Early preparedness and timely action remain essential in reducing the impacts of flash flooding.”
