Peak Rainy Season: NiMet Warns Oyo, Lagos, 25 Other States of Flash Flood Risk

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that intensified rainfall as the country enters the peak of the rainy season could trigger flash flooding across several other states, placing Oyo and 26 others on high alert.

According to the agency, the widespread rainfall recorded in June has left soils heavily saturated, significantly reducing their ability to absorb additional rainwater.

NiMet said the situation has heightened the risk of flash flooding, particularly in low-lying communities, urban centres, coastal areas and locations with poor drainage systems.

The states identified as being most vulnerable are Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Delta, Edo, Taraba, Sokoto, Borno, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, Adamawa, Kwara, Kogi, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers and Bayelsa.

The agency warned that the anticipated heavy rainfall could result in localised flash floods, especially in flood-prone communities and densely populated urban areas.

NiMet also listed several possible impacts, including traffic congestion, road closures, transport disruptions, temporary electricity and telecommunications outages, reduced visibility affecting motorists and aviation operations, waterlogging of farmlands with potential crop losses, and damage to roads, bridges, drainage infrastructure and other public facilities.

It further cautioned that stagnant floodwaters could increase the risk of waterborne diseases if proper sanitation measures are not maintained.

To minimise the impact of the expected flooding, NiMet advised residents to monitor official weather forecasts and flood advisories, keep drains and waterways free of refuse, secure loose outdoor objects, and avoid walking or driving through flooded roads.

The agency stressed that early preparedness, public awareness and prompt action remain critical to reducing the risks and impacts associated with flash flooding during the peak of the rainy season.

It also urged State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), local authorities, community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and emergency response efforts.