The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has warned of a high risk of riverine flooding across 15 states between September 19 and 25, as rising water levels increase the possibility of flooding in communities located on floodplains.
In a national flood advisory issued on Friday, the agency said the forecast covered a seven-day period and urged authorities and residents in vulnerable communities to take precautionary measures.
The affected states are Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Kogi, Taraba, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu and Abia.
NIHSA said nine river stations had been identified as being at risk and would require close monitoring during the period covered by the advisory.
Among the locations identified in the assessment are Obubra, Itigidi and Epento, all situated along the Cross River.
The agency said significant populations and critical infrastructure were exposed to flood risks in the affected areas, highlighting the potential consequences of rising river levels.
In Cross River State alone, NIHSA identified 2,471 communities, 703 schools, 344 health facilities, 145 markets and 453 religious centres within areas considered vulnerable to flooding.
The assessment also identified about 854 hectares of farmland in Cross River as being exposed to the risk, potentially affecting agricultural activities and livelihoods if flooding occurs.
Umar Mohammed, NIHSA’s director-general, urged state and local government emergency management authorities to act promptly in response to the forecast.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Mr Mohammed also called on traditional rulers and community leaders in affected areas to support efforts to protect lives and property.
He advised residents living in flood-prone communities to move people, livestock and valuables to safer and higher ground where necessary.
The agency’s warning comes during a period when several parts of Nigeria remain vulnerable to flooding as rivers respond to increased water levels and rainfall.
NIHSA has previously advised communities in flood-prone areas to monitor official alerts and avoid activities that could expose residents to rapidly rising water levels.
The agency said close monitoring of the identified river stations would be necessary throughout the forecast period to provide timely information on changing flood conditions.
Residents and emergency authorities in the 15 affected states are expected to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to reduce the potential impact of riverine flooding on communities, infrastructure, farms and other assets..