NiMet Issues Flood Alert for 19 Nigerian States

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a fresh flood alert for 19 states across the country, including Lagos and Oyo, due to anticipated heavy rainfall. This warning follows the onset of heavy rains and highlights the risk of flash floods, exacerbated by prolonged dry conditions that have hardened the soil, reducing its ability to absorb water.

NiMet cautions that the situation may lead to increased surface runoff capable of overwhelming drainage channels, resulting in flooding in communities. The agency has identified states at risk, including Zamfara, Nasarawa, Kwara, Ogun, Ekiti, Delta, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, Ondo, and Bayelsa.

Residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for possible disruptions and take precautionary measures to reduce the impact of flooding. NiMet warns that flash floods could lead to road traffic gridlock, destruction of homes and farmland, and critical infrastructure damage, as well as increase the risk of waterborne diseases if urgent preventive steps are not taken.