NiMet places FCT, 8 states on high flood alert for late August

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a severe weather advisory warning of high-risk flash flooding across nine states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for August 21 to 31.

According to the agency’s latest forecast outlook, the vulnerability assessment is based on a combination of critical hydrological factors, including high rainfall intensity, elevated soil moisture levels, terrain profile, drainage capacity and dam operations.

The advisory identifies Niger, Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Taraba, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom and the FCT as areas facing the highest risk of flash flooding over the ten-day period.

Additionally, six other states—Plateau, Kaduna, Oyo, Enugu, Ekiti, and Edo—have been placed under medium watch, with a notable possibility of experiencing localized flooding following intense rainfall.

NiMet warned that the anticipated downpours could trigger severe impacts, including waterlogging of low-lying and riverside communities, urban traffic gridlock, temporary disruptions to power and telecommunications networks, reduced visibility for road and air travel, and structural damage to critical infrastructure.

The agency also highlighted the threat to the agricultural sector, cautioning that flooded farmlands could lead to significant crop damage and livestock losses, alongside an increased risk of waterborne disease outbreaks in affected areas.

Urging proactive countermeasures, NiMet advised residents in floodplains and poorly drained locations to maintain heightened vigilance and prepare for timely evacuation if water levels rise.

The weather agency further called on motorists to avoid navigating flooded roads and bridges, while urging state emergency management agencies (SEMAs), local authorities, and farmers to clear drainage channels, pre-position emergency response units, and secure farm assets to mitigate potential disaster risks.