Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that 19 states across the country may experience flash flooding in the coming days following forecasts of heavy early rains, raising fresh concerns over the country’s preparedness for another devastating flood season.
In an advisory issued on Thursday, the agency explained that prolonged dry conditions had left soils hardened and unable to absorb large volumes of water, thereby increasing surface runoff and the likelihood of sudden flooding in vulnerable communities. States identified as high-risk include Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Cross River and Akwa Ibom, among others.
NiMet warned that the expected flooding could lead to submerged roads, traffic gridlock, destruction of homes and farmlands, blocked drainage channels, and disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services.
The agency also cautioned that stagnant floodwaters could heighten the spread of water-borne diseases and increase the risk of injuries. “Motorists and pedestrians are advised not to drive or walk through flooded areas,” the advisory stated.
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, who also serves as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), has repeatedly stressed the need for stronger climate adaptation measures and early warning systems to reduce the impact of extreme weather events across the country.
The latest alert comes amid growing fears of widespread flooding in 2026 after the Federal Government recently disclosed that 14,118 communities in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory are at risk of severe flooding this year.
Nigeria has witnessed recurring flood disasters in recent years, with the 2022 floods regarded as one of the worst in decades after hundreds of lives were lost and thousands displaced across several states.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
