The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flash flood alert for Sokoto and 25 other states, warning that heavy rainfall expected between July 1 and July 10 could trigger flooding in vulnerable communities across the country.
The agency urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures, noting that the warning forms part of its early weather advisory aimed at reducing the impact of flooding during the peak of the rainy season.
List of projected states
According to NiMet, states likely to experience flash flooding include Sokoto, Taraba, Borno, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, Adamawa, Kwara, Kogi, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Delta, Edo, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers and Bayelsa.
The agency attributed the heightened flood risk to persistent and intense rainfall, warning that poorly drained urban centres and low-lying communities are particularly susceptible to flash floods.
NiMet also cautioned that the expected downpours could disrupt transportation, reduce visibility for motorists and aviation operations, and affect electricity and telecommunications infrastructure in some areas.
Residents were advised to avoid driving or walking through flooded roads, clear drainage channels around homes and businesses, relocate from high-risk areas where necessary, and closely monitor official weather updates throughout the forecast period.
Emergency management agencies and state governments were equally urged to activate flood preparedness measures and intensify public awareness campaigns to minimise potential loss of lives and property as rainfall intensifies across the country.
