Nigeria’s Environment Ministry has issued a critical flood warning for 19 states, citing intense rainfall expected from August 5 to 9, 2025, that could cause widespread flooding.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecasts thunderstorms and heavy rains across the country.
Particularly from Monday to Wednesday, raising concerns about flash floods in vulnerable areas.
This alert follows recent devastating floods, underscoring Nigeria’s susceptibility during the rainy season.
In the northern region, NiMet predicts morning thunderstorms with moderate rains in Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina.
These states face a high flood risk, with Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi especially vulnerable due to saturated soils and heavy downpours.
By afternoon and evening, thunderstorms are expected to spread across the entire northern region, increasing the likelihood of flooding.
Central states, including Benue, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will see light morning showers on Monday, extending to Plateau and Kwara later in the day.
Intermittent rains are forecast to continue through Tuesday and Wednesday, heightening flood risks in these areas.
In the south, cloudy skies with light morning rains are expected in Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa.
By evening, heavier showers could trigger flooding in Oyo, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.
Recent Floods Highlight Risks
The warning comes in the wake of severe flooding earlier in 2025, including the May Mokwa disaster in Niger State, where over 500 people died, thousands were displaced, and vast farmlands were destroyed.
The disaster, caused by water release from the Jebba Hydroelectric Power Station dam, affected over 5,000 farmers and damaged 10,000 hectares of paddy fields in Niger and Kwara states.
Similar impacts were felt in Kebbi, Sokoto, Katsina, and Kano, with economic losses in the billions of naira.
In late July, Adamawa State reported five deaths and over 50 injuries after floods hit Yola North and Yola South, submerging homes and washing away roads.
These events highlight the urgent need for preparedness as Nigeria’s rainy season intensifies.
Authorities Urge Action
The Environment Ministry and NiMet have urged local authorities to activate emergency response systems, issue flood warnings, and protect infrastructure.
NiMet advised residents to avoid driving during heavy rains, secure outdoor items, wear weather-appropriate clothing, and unplug electrical appliances to prevent damage or injury.
States at high risk, including those flagged by NiMet, are encouraged to deploy rapid response teams to mitigate impacts.
Public and Government Response
The flood alert has sparked concern, particularly in Lagos, where the state government has called for calm while warning of more downpours.
Residents are urged to follow safety guidelines to minimize risks.
The federal government has emphasized the need for collaboration with local communities to address flood vulnerabilities, especially in the 1,200 communities identified as high-risk across 30 states.
As Nigeria braces for potential flooding, the focus remains on preparedness and rapid response to protect lives and property.
The coming days will test the nation’s resilience against nature’s challenges.
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