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By Myke Agunwa
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on Wednesday issued a nationwide weather alert, forecasting widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across several states in the country.
The advisory warns of possible flash flooding, disruptions to daily activities, and safety hazards associated with severe weather conditions.
Recall that on May 28, 2025, torrential rains triggered catastrophic flash floods in Mokwa, Niger State, leaving over 200 dead and nearly 1,000 still missing.
Similarly, more than 3,000 homes were submerged. The entire town including schools, clinics, bridges, and roads, was overrun, isolating communities and displacing thousands. During the disaster, dams caved in and bridges collapsed, forcing children to cross swollen rivers by canoe to attend classes. The disaster wiped out farmlands and small businesses, deepening food insecurity and economic distress.
NiMET, in its daily weather outlook released by NiMet on its X handle on Wednesday, stated that several states in the Northern region, including Taraba, Kaduna, Adamawa, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Sokoto, Gombe, and Bauchi will experience thunderstorms beginning in the morning and continuing into the afternoon and evening hours.
In the North-Central region, thunderstorms are likely in the morning across Benue, Kwara, Niger, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Nasarawa. Later in the day, storms are expected to extend into Kogi and Plateau.
The Southern states will see a generally cloudy atmosphere in the morning, with early rainfall possible in parts of Ondo, Ekiti, and Edo. However, by afternoon and evening, isolated thunderstorms with rain are forecast across Imo, Enugu, Abia, Ebonyi, Anambra, Ondo, Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti, Edo, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers.
The agency urged the public to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions during this period of heightened weather activity.
Some of the precautionary measures recommend by NiMET include:
“Be aware of flash flooding, especially in flood-prone areas.
“Avoid driving during heavy downpours, as visibility and road conditions may deteriorate rapidly.
“Secure loose outdoor items that may become hazardous in strong winds.
“Unplug electrical appliances during lightning activity to avoid electrical hazards.
“Stay indoors and avoid sheltering under tall or unstable trees during storms.
“Airline operators are strongly advised to obtain airport-specific forecasts for flight safety planning.
“The public is advised to remain cautious of flash flooding and disruptions due to heavy rainfall,”
NiMet emphasized the importance of preparedness, urging communities and local authorities to act proactively in minimizing risks and responding to emergencies that may arise due to adverse weather.
As the rainy season intensifies, citizens are encouraged to follow official weather updates and heed safety advisories to protect lives and property.