BREAKING: NiHSA Issues Fresh Flood Alerts In 14 States [See Affected States]

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has issued a fresh flood alert, warning that 14 states across the country face a medium risk of severe flooding between July 14 and July 20, 2026, as persistent rainfall continues to raise water levels in rivers and flood-prone communities.

The agency said its latest hydrological assessment indicates an increased likelihood of inland flooding along major river channels during the forecast period, urging state governments, emergency management agencies and residents in vulnerable areas to take immediate precautionary measures.

The warning was contained in a flood advisory issued on Wednesday and signed by the Director-General of NiHSA, Arc. Umar Mohammed.

According to the advisory, the states identified as being at medium flood risk are Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Kaduna, Lagos, Niger and Plateau.

NiHSA also revealed that 16 hydrological monitoring stations across the country have been classified as high-risk locations, indicating a strong possibility of rising river levels and flooding in nearby communities if rainfall persists.

The agency warned that several settlements within the affected states could experience varying degrees of flooding, particularly those located along riverbanks and low-lying areas.

It further cautioned that essential public infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, health centres, markets, roads and other public facilities, could be affected if the anticipated flood events materialise.

According to the agency, proactive measures by governments and emergency responders are essential to reduce the risk of loss of lives, destruction of property and disruption of economic activities.

NiHSA stressed that the advisory forms part of its continuous efforts to provide early warning information that enables authorities and residents to prepare ahead of potential flood disasters.

Mohammed explained that the agency publishes its Annual Flood Outlook at the beginning of every year to provide scientific flood predictions, risk assessments and hydrological information before the peak of the rainy season.

He said the annual forecast serves as a planning tool for federal, state and local governments, emergency management agencies, humanitarian organisations and other stakeholders responsible for disaster preparedness and response.

According to him, the forecasts are designed to support timely interventions, improve emergency planning and minimise the humanitarian and economic impact of flooding across the country.

In light of the current weather conditions and increasing flood threats, the Director-General urged state governments, emergency management agencies and residents of flood-prone communities to take the agency’s warnings seriously.

He called on relevant authorities to strengthen flood monitoring and early warning systems, activate emergency response and evacuation plans where necessary, clear blocked drainage channels and intensify public awareness campaigns to educate residents on flood safety measures.

Mohammed also encouraged communities living in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant, monitor official weather and flood updates, and cooperate with emergency officials whenever evacuation directives are issued.

He noted that effective coordination among government agencies, local authorities and community leaders would play a crucial role in mitigating the devastating effects of flooding during the peak of the 2026 rainy season.

NiHSA reiterated that early preparedness and prompt response remain the most effective strategies for safeguarding lives, protecting critical infrastructure and reducing the impact of flood disasters as the rainy season intensifies across Nigeria.