NIHSA Warns 17 States of Imminent Flooding, Urges Residents in High-Risk Areas to Evacuate
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has placed 17 states on high flood alert and ordered residents living in vulnerable communities to evacuate immediately as persistent heavy rainfall continues to raise the risk of severe flooding across the country.
The agency issued the warning following hydrological assessments indicating that rising water levels in major rivers and tributaries could trigger widespread flooding in several parts of Nigeria. According to NIHSA, communities situated along riverbanks, floodplains and other low-lying areas face the greatest danger and should relocate to safer locations without delay.
The flood alert forms part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding, which has repeatedly caused loss of lives, destruction of homes, damage to infrastructure and displacement of thousands of people in previous years.
NIHSA explained that continuous rainfall, combined with increased river discharge and saturated soil conditions, has significantly heightened the possibility of flooding in the affected states. The agency urged residents not to ignore the warning, stressing that early evacuation remains one of the most effective ways to prevent casualties.
Emergency management authorities have also been advised to activate contingency plans and strengthen disaster preparedness measures in areas identified as being at high risk. State governments were encouraged to establish temporary shelters for displaced residents and ensure the availability of relief materials should flooding occur.
The agency called on local government authorities, traditional rulers and community leaders to support awareness campaigns by informing residents about the dangers associated with remaining in flood-prone locations. It noted that public cooperation would be essential in ensuring successful evacuation efforts.
Motorists and commuters were also advised to avoid driving through flooded roads, as strong currents can quickly sweep away vehicles. Residents were warned against attempting to cross overflowing rivers or drainage channels during periods of intense rainfall.
Health officials have equally been urged to prepare for possible outbreaks of waterborne diseases, including cholera and typhoid, which often increase after major flooding. Communities were encouraged to maintain proper sanitation practices and ensure access to safe drinking water.
Environmental experts say climate change, rapid urbanisation and poor drainage systems have contributed to the increasing frequency and severity of flooding across Nigeria. They stressed the need for improved urban planning, regular desilting of drainage channels and stronger enforcement of environmental regulations to reduce future flood risks.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), state emergency agencies and other relevant institutions have been called upon to coordinate response efforts and ensure that vulnerable populations receive timely assistance where necessary.
Residents in the affected states have also been advised to closely monitor official weather forecasts and flood advisories issued by NIHSA and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). Authorities cautioned against relying on rumours or unverified information circulating on social media, urging citizens to follow only official safety instructions.
Farmers in flood-prone communities have been encouraged to take precautionary measures to protect crops, livestock and farming equipment where possible, while businesses operating in vulnerable locations were advised to safeguard valuable assets and prepare emergency response plans.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting disaster management agencies in mitigating the effects of flooding and providing humanitarian assistance to affected communities. Officials said proactive measures, public awareness and timely evacuation remain critical to reducing the devastating impact of seasonal floods.
As rainfall continues across many parts of the country, NIHSA has assured Nigerians that it will keep monitoring water levels and provide regular updates as conditions evolve. The agency urged residents in the 17 affected states to remain vigilant, cooperate with emergency responders and prioritise their safety by complying with evacuation directives where necessary.
The latest alert serves as a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and community resilience as Nigeria enters the peak of its annual rainy season. Authorities continue to emphasise that early action can save lives and minimise the destruction often associated with severe flooding.
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