NiMet warns of flooding in Lagos and 26 other states

Twenty seven out of the 36 states in Nigeria risk experiencing flooding in the coming days.

This was disclosed by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) in a flash flood risk alert for the first dekad of July (July 1–10).

NiMet warns that widespread rainfall expected during the period could trigger flooding across 27 states as the country enters the peak of the rainy season.

In the advisory, NiMet attributed the heightened risk to the persistent rainfall experienced in June, which it said has left soils across much of the country unable to absorb additional precipitation.

The agency said in a statement released on Sunday, July 5: “Following widespread rainfall recorded across many parts of Nigeria in June, soils have become heavily saturated, reducing their ability to absorb additional rainfall.

“As July marks the beginning of the peak rainy season, the risk of flash flooding is expected to increase, particularly in low-lying, urban, coastal, and poorly drained areas.”

According to the agency, the states likely to experience flash flooding during the period include “Taraba, Sokoto, 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 also warned that “temporary power and telecommunications outages may occur in affected areas, while poor visibility during intense rainfall could pose risks to motorists and aviation operations.”

The forecast further highlighted the potential for waterlogging of farmlands, with possible crop losses, as well as damage to roads, bridges, drainage infrastructure and other public facilities.

Health officials were also urged to remain vigilant over the increased risk of waterborne diseases associated with stagnant floodwaters and poor sanitation.

To minimise the impact of the expected flooding, NiMet urged residents and emergency responders to take preventive measures without delay.

The agency advised Nigerians to: “Follow weather forecasts and flash flood advisories issued by NiMet; keep drains, gutters, and waterways free of refuse to ensure the free flow of water.

“Also, it said it should secure loose outdoor objects and reinforce vulnerable structures; and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.”

NiMet also called on emergency management authorities to step up preparedness efforts.

It stated, “SEMAs, NEMA, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders should strengthen preparedness and response measures.”

The agency stressed that proactive planning remains the most effective way to reduce the devastating effects of flash flooding.

“Early preparedness and timely action remain essential in reducing the impacts of flash flooding,” it added.