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By Philip Nwosu
Anxiety has gripped communities in 13 states following a warning by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) of possible flash floods between August 11 and 20, 2026.
The affected states are Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom.
NiMet, in an advisory posted on its X handle on Tuesday, said the forecast was based on a combination of factors, including expected rainfall intensity, soil moisture, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics.
The agency urged residents, farmers and emergency management authorities in the affected states to take precautionary measures and prepare for possible flooding during the forecast period.
According to NiMet, flash floods could occur particularly in flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities, with possible consequences including road closures, traffic congestion and disruption of transportation.
The agency also warned that heavy rainfall and flooding could temporarily disrupt electricity and telecommunications services, reduce visibility and affect road and aviation operations.
It said waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops and livestock, while flash floods could destroy roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure.
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NiMet further warned that stagnant floodwaters could increase the risk of waterborne diseases in affected communities.
The agency advised residents to monitor weather forecasts and flood alerts issued by NiMet and emergency management authorities throughout the period.
It specifically urged the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing water, particularly during heavy rainfall.
Residents in vulnerable communities were also advised to remain alert and be prepared to relocate to safer areas if flooding threatens their homes or communities.
NiMet called on emergency management authorities to strengthen flood surveillance, pre-position response teams and maintain a high level of preparedness throughout the forecast period.
It also advised farmers to improve drainage on their farms and move livestock, farm machinery and harvested produce away from flood-prone areas.
The agency urged all stakeholders to treat the warning seriously and take preventive measures to reduce the potential impact of flash floods on lives, property, livelihoods and critical infrastructure.
