NiMet forecasts heavy rains, thunderstorms, possible flash floods nationwide

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast thundery and rainy weather activities across the country from Monday to Wednesday, warning of potential flash floods in some states.

In a weather outlook released Sunday in Abuja, the agency predicted morning thunderstorms and moderate rains in northern states such as Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina on Monday.

It also warned of high flood risks in Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi during this period.

In the central region, NiMet projected light rains over Benue, the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Kogi, and Nasarawa in the morning, with continued light rainfall in the afternoon and evening in states including Kwara and Plateau.

Southern states such as Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa will experience light rains in the morning, which will continue throughout the day. The agency noted possible flooding in Oyo, Ogun, Edo, and Delta States.

For Tuesday, thunderstorms and moderate rains are expected to continue across Taraba, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Zamfara. The central region will witness intermittent light rains in the FCT, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, and Benue.

In the south, cloudy skies and light rain are anticipated in several states including Ebonyi, Ondo, Lagos, and Rivers. NiMet issued a flood alert for Anambra, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.

By Wednesday, Taraba and Kaduna in the north will begin the day with thunderstorms and moderate rains, while later in the day, isolated thunderstorms and rains will spread to Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Jigawa, Kano, and Adamawa. The central region will see light rains in the FCT, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, and Benue.

The southern region will continue to experience light and intermittent rains across most states, with a high chance of flooding in Bayelsa.

NiMet urged Nigerians to avoid driving during heavy rainfall and advised communities in flood-prone areas to activate emergency response measures. The public was also cautioned to dress warmly due to low nighttime temperatures, secure loose items to prevent accidents, unplug electrical devices during storms, and avoid sheltering under trees.

The agency encouraged residents and airline operators to access real-time weather updates through its official website, www.nimet.gov.ng.