Sokoto, 12 Others at High Risk as NiMet Issues Flood Warning
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has raised the alarm over possible flash floods in 13 states, urging residents and relevant authorities to take precautionary measures.
The agency, in an advisory issued on Tuesday through its X handle, listed Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom among areas facing a high flood risk.
NiMet said its assessment was based on several factors, including expected rainfall intensity, soil moisture, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics.
It warned that flash floods could affect low-lying, flood-prone, urban and riverside communities, with consequences such as road closures, traffic congestion and disruption of transportation.
The agency further cautioned that flooding and heavy rainfall could temporarily disrupt electricity and telecommunications services, reduce visibility and affect road and aviation operations.
NiMet said waterlogging could destroy farmlands, crops and livestock, while flash floods could damage roads, bridges, drainage networks and other critical infrastructure.
It also warned that stagnant floodwater could create conditions favourable for the spread of waterborne diseases.
The agency urged residents to regularly monitor weather forecasts and flood alerts from NiMet and emergency management authorities.
It advised the public not to walk or drive through flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water, while residents in vulnerable locations were encouraged to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas when necessary.
NiMet also called on emergency management authorities to increase surveillance, deploy response teams in advance and maintain a high level of preparedness.
Farmers were advised to improve drainage around their farms and move livestock, agricultural machinery and harvested crops to areas less vulnerable to flooding.
NiMet said the warning was aimed at promoting early action, strengthening emergency response and reducing the impact of flooding on communities and critical infrastructure.
