NiMet Warns 26 States of Flash Flood Risk

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a fresh flash flood warning, placing 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on alert over the risk of flooding between 11 July and 20 July 2026. The agency linked the warning to the heavy and persistent rainfall recorded across many parts of the country, which has left the ground unable to absorb more water.

According to NiMet, northern states facing a high flash flood risk include Bauchi, Jigawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, and Kogi. The flash flood risk also extends to Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Delta, Edo, Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers, Bayelsa, and the Federal Capital Territory.

The warning appeared in NiMet’s Probable Flash Flood Risk Map for the Second Dekad, 11–20 July 2026, which was made available to journalists on Sunday. The agency explained that the continued rainfall has fully saturated the soil in many areas, making it difficult for the ground to take in additional water. As a result, communities across the affected states face a greater flash flood risk, especially if the downpours continue.

NiMet also expressed concern for people living in low-lying communities, densely populated urban areas, and locations with poor drainage systems. The agency advised that these places remain especially vulnerable as rising water levels could quickly lead to widespread flooding during the forecast period.

What steps do you think communities should take to reduce the impact of the expected flash flood risk?