Nigeria’s Environment Ministry has issued a critical flood alert for 19 states, warning that intense rainfall between August 5 and 9 could trigger widespread flooding across the country. The advisory follows a forecast from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which has identified a three-day weather system likely to bring thunderstorms and heavy downpours, particularly in northern and southern regions.
NiMet’s projections highlight northern states such as Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina as high-risk zones, with Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi facing the most severe flood threats. Central states including Benue, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to experience light morning showers, with heavier rainfall developing later in Plateau, Kwara, and surrounding areas.
In the southern belt, evening showers may lead to flooding in Oyo, Ogun, Edo, and Delta states. Meanwhile, significant flood risks have been flagged for Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, where saturated grounds and poor drainage systems may exacerbate the impact.
Authorities across the affected regions have been urged to activate emergency response protocols, issue timely flood warnings, reinforce vulnerable infrastructure, and advise residents to avoid travel during storm conditions. NiMet also recommended practical safety measures, including securing outdoor belongings, wearing weather-appropriate clothing, and disconnecting electrical appliances during severe weather events.
This alert comes amid growing concern over Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters. The warning follows the catastrophic May flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, where over 500 lives were lost, thousands were displaced, and extensive damage was inflicted on homes and farmland. As the rainy season intensifies, officials are calling for heightened vigilance and community preparedness to mitigate further loss.