NiMet warns Lagos, Ogun, 25 other states over flash flood risk

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flash flood risk alert for Lagos, Ogun and 25 other states, warning that widespread rainfall expected during the first dekad of July could trigger flooding across several parts of the country.

The agency said the warning covers July 1 to 10 as Nigeria enters the peak of the rainy season, noting that persistent rainfall recorded in June has left soils heavily saturated and unable to absorb additional precipitation.

NiMet said: “Following widespread rainfall recorded across many parts of Nigeria in June, soils have become heavily saturated, reducing their ability to absorb additional rainfall.

“As July marks the beginning of the peak rainy season, the risk of flash flooding is expected to increase, particularly in low-lying, urban, coastal, and poorly drained areas.”

According to the agency, states likely to experience flash flooding during the period are Taraba, Sokoto, Borno, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, Adamawa, Kwara, Kogi, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Delta, Edo, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers and Bayelsa.

NiMet warned that the expected heavy rainfall could disrupt transportation, public utilities, agriculture, infrastructure and public health.

The agency said the rainfall could “trigger localized flooding, resulting in traffic gridlock, road closures and disruptions to transportation.”

It also warned that “temporary power and telecommunications outages may occur in affected areas, while poor visibility during intense rainfall could pose risks to motorists and aviation operations.”

The forecast further highlighted the possibility of waterlogging farmlands, leading to crop losses, while roads, bridges, drainage infrastructure and other public facilities could also suffer damage.

NiMet urged health authorities to remain alert over the increased risk of waterborne diseases associated with stagnant floodwaters and poor sanitation.

To reduce the impact of the anticipated flooding, the agency advised residents to monitor weather updates and take precautionary measures.

NiMet advised Nigerians to: “Follow weather forecasts and flash flood advisories issued by NiMet; keep drains, gutters, and waterways free of refuse to ensure the free flow of water.

“Also, it said it should secure loose outdoor objects and reinforce vulnerable structures; and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.”

The agency also called on emergency management agencies and community leaders to improve their preparedness.

NiMet stated: “SEMAs, NEMA, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders should strengthen preparedness and response measures.”

The agency stressed that proactive planning remains the most effective way to reduce the impact of flash floods.

It added: “Early preparedness and timely action remain essential in reducing the impacts of flash flooding.”

Reinforcing the warning, NiMet concluded: “An informed community is a prepared community. 

“Know the risks and Act Early.”