Residents across 13 Nigerian states have been warned to prepare for possible flash floods between August 11 and 20, 2026, as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) raises concerns over heavy rainfall and flood risks.
The affected states are Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom. NiMet issued the warning in an advisory published on its official X account on Tuesday.
The agency said its assessment was based on several factors, including forecast rainfall intensity, soil moisture, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics. It said the warning was intended to help communities and authorities prepare early and reduce the impact of possible flooding.
NiMet warned that flash floods could affect flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities. Such flooding could lead to road closures, traffic congestion and disruption to transport services.
The agency also cautioned that heavy rainfall and flooding could temporarily affect electricity and telecommunications services. Reduced visibility caused by intense rainfall could further create challenges for road users and disrupt aviation operations.
Agriculture and infrastructure are also at risk, according to NiMet. Waterlogging could damage farms, crops and livestock, while fast-moving floodwaters could destroy roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure. Stagnant water could also increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
Residents in the affected states have been advised to monitor weather forecasts and flood alerts issued by NiMet and emergency management agencies. The agency urged people to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing water.
People living in vulnerable locations were advised to remain alert and prepare to move to safer areas if conditions deteriorate. NiMet also called on emergency management authorities to increase surveillance, pre-position response teams and maintain readiness throughout the period covered by the advisory.
Farmers were advised to improve drainage around their farms and move livestock, machinery and harvested produce away from areas prone to flooding. The agency stressed that early preparation could help reduce damage to lives, livelihoods and critical infrastructure.
