The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued an advisory warning of possible flash floods in 13 states between August 11 and 20.
In a notice posted on its X handle on Tuesday, the agency listed Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom as high-risk states.
NiMet said the forecast factored in rainfall intensity, soil moisture, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics, and was aimed at supporting early preparedness, emergency response and disaster risk reduction.
The agency warned that flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities could see road closures, traffic disruption, and temporary interference with electricity, telecommunications and aviation operations. It added that waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops and livestock, while flash floods could destroy roads, bridges and drainage infrastructure, and stagnant water could raise the risk of waterborne diseases.
NiMet urged residents to monitor forecasts and flood alerts, avoid flooded roads and fast-flowing water, and be ready to relocate if necessary. It also called on emergency management authorities to boost surveillance and pre-position response teams, and advised farmers to improve farm drainage and move livestock, machinery and produce out of flood-prone areas.
