NIHSA warns 17 states of possible flooding from July 21

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has warned that 17 states are at risk of flooding between July 21 and 27, urging residents and authorities in affected areas to take immediate precautionary measures.

The warning was contained in the agency’s National Flood Advisory (Alert No. NFA-2026-200), which forecast a medium flood risk across the affected states.

Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, said the states include Bauchi, Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau, Benue and 11 others.

He explained that the forecast points to possible localised flooding along major river channels and floodplains, stressing the need for early action to protect lives and property.

Mohammed said NIHSA’s hydrological monitoring network had recorded water levels above the watch and warning thresholds at key monitoring stations, including Saminara on the Karam River, Waya Dam Site on the Waya River and Amber on the Amber River.

“With 16 gauging stations recording elevated water levels, communities along major river channels face imminent localised flooding. We advise state governments, local authorities and residents living in flood-prone areas to take immediate action,” Mohammed said.

According to the advisory, Bauchi State has the highest number of communities at risk, with 1,841 communities identified. The state also has 145 schools, 101 health facilities and eight markets within vulnerable areas.

In Edo State, 148 communities, 131 schools, 123 health facilities, four markets, seven religious centres and seven hectares of farmland are exposed to possible flooding.

The agency also identified 415 communities in Imo State, 168 in Kaduna, 205 in Plateau and five in Benue as being at risk.

Mohammed called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), local government authorities and community leaders to begin the immediate evacuation of people living in flood-prone areas.

He also urged emergency agencies to pre-position food, medical supplies, clean water and other relief materials in safe locations ahead of possible flooding.