NIHSA warns 17 states of possible flooding from July 21
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA has alerted 17 states across the country to the risk of flooding between July 21 and 27, urging residents and relevant authorities to take immediate precautionary measures.
The warning was contained in the agency’s National Flood Advisory (Alert No. NFA-2026-200), which forecasts a medium flood risk across the affected states.
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, said the states include Bauchi, Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau, Benue and 11 others.
He explained that the forecast indicates possible localised flooding along major river channels and floodplains, stressing the importance of early action to safeguard lives and property.
According to Mohammed, NIHSA’s hydrological monitoring network recorded water levels above the watch and warning thresholds at key stations, including Saminara on the Karam River, Waya Dam Site on the Waya River, and Amber on the Amber River.
“With 16 gauging stations recording elevated water levels, communities along major river channels face imminent localised flooding.
We advise state governments, local authorities and residents living in flood-prone areas to take immediate action,” he said.
Bauchi State has the highest number of vulnerable communities, with 1,841 communities identified, alongside 145 schools, 101 health facilities and eight markets located within flood-prone areas.
In Edo State, 148 communities, 131 schools, 123 health facilities, four markets, seven religious centres and seven hectares of farmland are exposed to possible flooding.
The advisory also listed 415 communities in Imo State, 168 in Kaduna State, 205 in Plateau State and five in Benue State as being at risk.
NIHSA called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), local government authorities and community leaders to commence the evacuation of residents in flood-prone communities where necessary.
The agency also urged emergency responders to pre-position food, medical supplies, clean water and other relief materials in safe locations to ensure a swift response should flooding occur.
