The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) may experience flash flooding in the coming days.

In an advisory issued on Thursday, the agency attributed the risk to increased surface runoff during early rains, noting that dry and hardened soils could prevent water from properly soaking into the ground.

States listed as vulnerable include Zamfara, Nasarawa, Kwara, Oyo, Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti, Delta, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Ondo, and Bayelsa.

NiMet said the likely impacts of the flooding include submerged roads, traffic disruptions, damage to homes, farmlands and infrastructure, as well as blocked drainage systems. It also warned of possible power outages, telecommunication disruptions, and increased risks of injuries and water-borne diseases.

The agency urged residents to take precautionary measures, including clearing blocked drainage channels and staying updated with weather forecasts and flood alerts. Motorists and pedestrians were also cautioned against driving or walking through flooded areas.

NiMet further called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to strengthen coordination, preparedness, and emergency response efforts to mitigate potential flood-related risks.

“An informed community is a prepared community. Know the risks and act early,” the advisory stated.

The warning comes amid earlier projections by the federal government indicating that over 14,000 communities across 33 states and the FCT could face severe flooding in 2026, underscoring the need for proactive measures nationwide.