The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has warned residents of 13 states to brace for possible flash floods between August 11 and 20, 2026.
NiMet, in an advisory issued on Tuesday, identified Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom as states at high risk of flash flooding during the period.
The agency said its forecast was based on rainfall intensity, soil moisture, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics.
It urged residents and relevant authorities to take early precautions, stressing that the advisory was designed to support preparedness, emergency response and disaster risk reduction.
According to NiMet, flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities are particularly vulnerable to flash floods.
The agency warned that flooding could lead to road closures, traffic congestion and disruption of transportation.
It also cautioned that heavy rainfall and flooding could temporarily disrupt electricity and telecommunications services, while poor visibility could affect road and aviation operations.
NiMet further warned that waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops and livestock, while flash floods could destroy roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure.
The agency added that stagnant floodwaters could increase the spread of waterborne diseases.
NiMet urged residents to regularly monitor weather forecasts and flood alerts issued by the agency and emergency management authorities.
It specifically advised members of the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing water, warning that such actions could expose them to serious danger.
Residents living in vulnerable locations were also advised to remain alert and prepare to relocate to safer areas where necessary.
The agency charged emergency management authorities to strengthen surveillance, pre-position response teams and maintain a high level of emergency preparedness throughout the forecast period.
Farmers were equally advised to improve drainage on their farms and move livestock, agricultural machinery and harvested produce away from flood-prone areas.
NiMet urged all stakeholders to treat the warning seriously and take preventive measures before heavy rainfall triggers flooding in vulnerable communities.
