Nigeria’s Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a warning for widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across the country beginning Monday, raising concerns of flash floods in some regions.
The three-day prediction, announced on Sunday in Abuja, indicates increased hazards as the country enters a critical rainy season.
On Monday, the agency projected early thunderstorms in the northern states of Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina, with conditions anticipated to worsen later in the day.
“There is a high possibility of flood occurring over parts of Adamawa, Taraba and Bauchi states during the forecast period,” NiMet said in its statement.
In central Nigeria, light rains are anticipated in the morning across Benue, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory. By afternoon and evening, showers are expected to spread into Plateau, Kwara, and other neighboring states.
Central states, including Abuja, are expected to experience intermittent rains, while southern states from Lagos to Calabar may see persistent showers. NiMet specifically cautioned residents in Anambra, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom to prepare for possible flooding.
By Wednesday, thunderstorms are forecast to sweep through Taraba and Kaduna in the morning, with isolated storms and moderate rainfall later across Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, and Kano. The central region will again see light showers in the morning, with more widespread rains by afternoon. In the south, intermittent rainfall is predicted in states including Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, and Cross River. Bayelsa faces the highest flood risk mid‑week.
The agency urged residents to take precautions. “Avoid driving under heavy rain, and states with the possibility of flash floods should activate their emergency response systems immediately,” the forecast said.
NiMet also advised households to secure loose objects, wear warm clothing during cooler nights, and disconnect electrical appliances during storms.
