NiMet Places FCT, 26 States on Red Alert Over Flood Risk

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has issued a fresh flash flood warning, placing the Federal Capital Territory and 26 states on red alert over the risk of flooding between July 11 and July 20, 2026.

According to the agency, persistent rainfall across the country has saturated the soil, significantly increasing the likelihood of flash floods, particularly in low-lying communities, urban centres and areas with poor drainage systems.

The warning was contained in NiMet’s Probable Flash Flood Risk Map for the Second Dekad, July 11–20, 2026, released on Sunday.

States identified as being at high risk include Bauchi, Jigawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Delta, Edo, Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers and Bayelsa, alongside the Federal Capital Territory.

NiMet attributed the heightened flood threat to sustained rainfall, noting that soils in many parts of the country have become fully saturated and are no longer able to absorb additional rainwater.

The agency warned that the prevailing weather conditions could trigger widespread flash flooding and advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant.

It also urged relevant emergency management agencies and state governments to intensify preparedness efforts and take proactive measures to minimise the impact of possible flooding during the forecast period.