Nigeria's northern states are at risk of flash floods, with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency issuing a warning for 13 states between August 11 and 20, 2026. The warning, posted on NiMet's X handle, lists Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom as states with high flash flood risk. According to NiMet, the affected areas could experience localised flash flooding, particularly in flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities, resulting in traffic congestion, road closures, and transport disruptions.
The agency warned that heavy rainfall could reduce visibility and affect motorists and aviation operations, while waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops, and livestock. Flash flooding could also damage roads, bridges, drainage systems, and other critical infrastructure, and stagnant floodwaters could increase the risk of waterborne diseases. NiMet advised residents to follow weather forecasts and flood advisories issued by the agency and relevant emergency management agencies, and to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges, or fast-flowing water.
NiMet also urged emergency management agencies to strengthen surveillance, pre-position response teams, and maintain emergency preparedness. Farmers were advised 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.
Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to remain alert and prepare to move to safer locations where necessary. The warning serves as an early warning and decision-support tool for proactive preparedness, emergency response planning, and disaster risk-reduction measures. As the rainy season continues, Nigeria's emergency management agencies and residents must be prepared to respond to potential flash floods and mitigate their impact.
