By Amarachi Jim-Nwoko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flash flood warning for 30 states, cautioning that the onset of the peak rainy season in July, coupled with already saturated soils from persistent June rainfall, could trigger widespread flooding in vulnerable communities across the country.
In an advisory released on Sunday, the agency explained that continuous rainfall recorded in June has left soils across many parts of Nigeria heavily saturated, significantly reducing their capacity to absorb additional rainfall.
It warned that the increased precipitation forecast for July is likely to heighten the risk of flash flooding, particularly in low-lying, urban, coastal and poorly drained areas.
“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,” the agency stated.
NiMet identified the states at risk as 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.
The agency warned that heavy rainfall could cause temporary power and telecommunications outages in affected areas, while reduced visibility during downpours may endanger motorists and disrupt aviation operations.
It also projected waterlogging of farmlands, possible crop losses and damage to roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical public infrastructure, warning that the impact could extend to transportation, public utilities, agriculture, infrastructure and public health.
According to NiMet, the anticipated flooding could result in traffic congestion, road closures and widespread disruption of movement in affected locations.
The agency further urged health authorities to remain alert to the heightened risk of waterborne diseases, noting that stagnant floodwaters and poor sanitation conditions could increase the spread of infections.
To reduce the impact of the expected floods, NiMet advised residents to take precautionary measures and urged emergency management agencies to strengthen their preparedness.
It specifically called on State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), community leaders and other relevant stakeholders to enhance response measures ahead of the expected heavy rains.
The agency stressed that early preparedness remains the most effective strategy for mitigating the effects of flash flooding.
It also advised Nigerians to monitor weather forecasts and flood advisories issued by NiMet, keep drains, gutters and waterways free of refuse, secure loose outdoor objects, reinforce vulnerable structures, and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
