Abuja: The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a nationwide flood alert, warning of high to very high flood risks across 198 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The alert, referenced as No: 32-25-003-06, covers the period from August 7 to August 21, citing rising river levels and persistent rainfall as key triggers.
NIHSA Director General, Mr. Umar Ibrahim, announced the warning on Thursday, urging emergency management agencies to activate response protocols and prepare evacuation plans for vulnerable communities.
According to the agency, over 832 communities and more than 100 major transportation routes could face severe disruptions during the forecast period.
States identified in the alert include Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, FCT, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.
NIHSA emphasised that the flood risk levels are based on its colour-coded hydrological map and real-time monitoring data. The agency advised residents in flood-prone areas to stay informed through its weekly state-level forecasts and the NIHSA flood dashboard.
“This alert is part of our ongoing commitment to safeguard lives and property,” Ibrahim stated. “We call on state governments, local authorities, and the public to take proactive measures to mitigate risks.”