The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has issued a public advisory warning Nigerians to prepare for possible flash flooding in several parts of the country following forecasts of heavy rainfall by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
According to the agency, the flash flood risk is expected to persist from July 1 to July 10, 2026, with 27 states identified as vulnerable to the anticipated heavy downpours.
The states listed in the advisory are Taraba, Sokoto, Borno, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, Adamawa, Kwara, Kogi, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Delta, Edo, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers and Bayelsa.
In the advisory signed by the Department of Environment, Climate and Energies at the NOA National Headquarters in Abuja, the agency urged residents, particularly those living in flood-prone and low-lying communities, to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.
The NOA advised members of the public to avoid walking, driving or riding through flooded roads or fast-flowing water, warning that the depth and strength of floodwaters can be deceptive. It also called on residents to clear blocked drainage channels around homes, schools, markets and business premises to ensure the free flow of rainwater.
The agency further recommended that people living in flood-prone areas should be prepared to relocate temporarily if flooding becomes imminent. It also urged households to move important documents, valuables and electrical appliances to higher ground where there is a risk of flooding.
Parents and guardians were advised to keep children away from floodwaters, drainage channels and swollen rivers, while residents were urged to disconnect electrical appliances and switch off power supply in buildings threatened by flooding to prevent electrocution.
The NOA also encouraged Nigerians to stay updated through weather forecasts and official advisories issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and other relevant government agencies. Members of the public were also urged to promptly report flooding incidents and blocked drainage systems to the appropriate emergency authorities.
The agency directed all its State Directors and Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers (COMOs) to intensify public sensitisation campaigns, particularly in communities considered vulnerable to flooding.
Reassuring Nigerians, the NOA called for calm while stressing the importance of preparedness.
“The National Orientation Agency urges all Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and safety-conscious throughout this period. Taking preventive measures early can significantly reduce the risk of loss of lives and property,” the advisory stated.
