NiMet flash-flood warning: Full list of 27 states at risk and what residents should do

• NiMet has identified 27 states as being at high risk of flash flooding due to heavy rainfall and saturated soils.

• Possible impacts include flooded roads, traffic disruption, power outages, damaged infrastructure, farmland losses and increased disease risk.

• Residents are advised to clear drainage systems, avoid floodwaters, prepare emergency supplies and closely follow NiMet and emergency management updates.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that 27 states across Nigeria are at high risk of flash flooding as heavy seasonal rainfall continues.

According to the agency, weeks of persistent rainfall have left the ground heavily saturated, making it difficult for the soil to absorb additional water. 

As a result, even a few hours of intense rainfall could trigger flash floods, especially in low-lying communities, urban centres and places with poor drainage. 

NiMet urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert, clear blocked drainage channels and follow official weather updates throughout the rainy season.

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• Sokoto

• Kebbi

• Zamfara

• Katsina

• Kaduna

• Borno

• Adamawa

• Taraba

• Nasarawa

• Plateau

• Kwara

• Kogi

• Oyo

• Ogun

• Lagos

• Osun

• Ekiti

• Delta

• Edo

• Abia

• Imo

• Anambra

• Enugu

• Akwa Ibom

• Cross River

• Rivers

• Bayelsa

NiMet said these states face a high risk because of continued heavy rainfall combined with already saturated soils, increasing the likelihood of sudden flooding when intense downpours occur. 

The agency warned that flash floods could affect transportation, public services, agriculture and public health.

Some of the expected impacts include:

• Traffic congestion caused by flooded roads.

• Roads and bridges becoming submerged or damaged.

• Reduced visibility for motorists and aviation operations during heavy rainfall.

• Temporary disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services.

READ NEXT: This is why you experience power outages when it rains 

• Flooding of farmlands, putting crops and livestock at risk.

• Increased risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid after floodwater contaminates drinking water and drainage systems. 

READ ALSO: 5 common rainy-season diseases and how to avoid them

NiMet advised people living in flood-prone communities to take preventive measures before heavy rainfall occurs.

The agency recommends:

• Clear drains and waterways: Remove debris from gutters, culverts and drainage channels around homes to allow rainwater to flow freely.

• Avoid floodwaters: Never walk, swim or drive through flooded roads or fast-moving water. If a road is submerged, turn around and find another route.

• Protect your property: Secure outdoor furniture and other loose items that could be swept away, and park vehicles on higher ground away from flood-prone areas.

• Prepare an emergency kit: Keep essential supplies such as clean drinking water, flashlights, medications, phone chargers and important documents in a waterproof bag.

• Maintain good hygiene: Boil or treat drinking water where necessary and keep your surroundings clean to reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.

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Nigeria experiences severe flooding almost every rainy season, causing loss of lives, displacement of residents, damage to infrastructure and destruction of farmland. 

With the peak of the rainy season underway, emergency agencies are urging residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant and act promptly whenever weather alerts are issued.