The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has forecasted widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across various regions of the country, warning of the potential for urban flooding in major cities. 

The weather outlook, released on Sunday, indicates that parts of Sokoto, Kebbi, and Borno states are expected to experience the most intense weather activity.

According to NiMET, thunderstorms are predicted to occur in several northern states, including Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Sokoto, later in the day. These thunderstorms will also affect central states such as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, and Kwara during the morning hours.

The agency further stated that isolated thunderstorms would persist into the afternoon and evening over parts of Kwara, the FCT, Niger, Benue, and Kogi states. Additionally, the southwest region, including Oyo, Ondo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ogun states, is forecasted to experience rainfall, which will extend to coastal areas such as Lagos, Delta, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa during the morning.

Later in the day, thunderstorms are expected to impact states in the southern and southeastern regions, including Enugu, Edo, Ebonyi, Ondo, Abia, Osun, Imo, Ekiti, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, and Lagos.

NiMET issued a strong advisory urging residents to stay away from flood-prone areas, noting a high probability of urban flooding due to the predicted heavy rainfall. In particular, residents of major cities were cautioned to be vigilant, as the combination of downpours and poor drainage systems could result in significant flooding.

“Adhere to safety advisories issued by relevant authorities,” the agency stated. It also advised the general public and airline operators to stay informed by obtaining up-to-date weather reports and forecasts for better planning.

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), echoed NiMET’s warning, stressing the need for proactive measures to mitigate flooding. A dam update report by NIHSA revealed that water levels along the River Benue’s critical stations had been steadily rising, nearing flood levels. The agency described the current situation as “flood preparedness level,” urging flood-prone states to take appropriate steps to manage potential overflow or water conveyance.

Lauretta Samuel, Head of Media and Publicity for NIHSA, urged residents in vulnerable areas to clear their canals, drainages, and gutters to minimize the risk of severe flooding.

The 12 states previously identified by NIHSA as being at high risk of flooding were again advised to remain on high alert and put measures in place to mitigate any disasters. These states include Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, Anambra, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Lagos.

NiMET emphasized the importance of staying informed and acting swiftly to avoid disasters, calling on both individuals and institutions to prepare adequately for the coming thunderstorms and possible flooding in affected areas.