The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a warning over the possibility of flash floods across 13 states between August 11 and 20, 2026.
The agency disclosed this in an advisory shared on its official X account on Tuesday, identifying 13 states in the northern part of the country as being at risk.
NiMet said the forecast was based on several factors, including the expected intensity of rainfall, existing soil moisture levels, drainage capacity, terrain features and the characteristics of dams in the affected areas.
“It serves as an early warning and decision-support tool for proactive preparedness, emergency response planning, and disaster risk-reduction measures.
“States with High Flash Flood Risk: Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River, Akwa Ibom,” the advisory read.
NiMet warned that the affected areas could experience localised flash flooding, particularly in flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities.
It said possible impacts included traffic congestion, road closures and transport disruptions, as well as temporary interruptions to electricity and telecommunications services.
The agency also warned that heavy rainfall could reduce visibility and affect motorists and aviation operations, while waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops and livestock.
According to NiMet, flash flooding could also damage roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure, while stagnant floodwaters could increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
The agency advised residents to follow weather forecasts and flood advisories issued by NiMet and relevant emergency management agencies.
It urged the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges or fast-flowing water, and advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and prepare to move to safer locations where necessary.
NiMet also advised emergency management agencies to strengthen surveillance, pre-position response teams and maintain emergency preparedness.
It urged farmers to improve farm drainage and move livestock, machinery and harvested produce away from flood-prone areas.
The agency called on authorities to prioritise vulnerable communities for impact-based monitoring, public sensitisation and rapid dissemination of warnings.
“Preparedness should be maintained even in areas with lower flood probability, as flash flooding can develop rapidly during intense rainfall,” NiMet said.
