In a move intended to elicit support and early preparedness, emergency response and disaster risk reduction, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned of possible flash floods in 13 states across the federation between August 11 and 20, 2026.

The agency, which cited rainfall intensity, soil moisture, drainage capacity, terrain and dam characteristics as the basis of the forecast, listed Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Cross River and Akwa Ibom as states at high risk.

Meanwhile, serving senators under the aegis of the Northern Senators’ Forum have called for an urgent and permanent solution to the recurring flooding in Shiroro Local Council Area of Niger State, warning that the continued reliance on emergency relief will not stop the loss of lives and livelihoods.

NiMet, in an advisory on its X handle, warned that flash floods could occur in flood-prone, low-lying, urban and riverside communities, with possible impacts including road closures.

It also warned that flooding could temporarily disrupt electricity and telecommunications services, while heavy rainfall could reduce visibility and affect road and aviation operations.

According to the agency, waterlogging could damage farmlands, crops and livestock, while flash floods could destroy roads, bridges, drainage systems and other critical infrastructure.

NIMet further urged the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing water, while people in vulnerable areas should be prepared to relocate to safer locations if necessary.

The agency also urged emergency management authorities to strengthen surveillance, pre-position response teams and maintain emergency preparedness.

In a statement yesterday, the chairman of the forum and representative of Katsina Central Senatorial District, Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, urged the federal and Niger State governments to move beyond temporary interventions and develop a comprehensive strategy to tackle the persistent flooding in Shiroro and other downstream communities.

The forum demanded the development and implementation of a Shiroro Flood Management Master Plan, which they said should provide a coordinated and scientifically driven framework for managing flood risks in the area.

According to them, the master plan should include a scientifically determined flood-buffer operating strategy for the Shiroro, Kainji and Jebba dams, as well as a permanent flood-forecasting and early-warning system supported by trained local volunteers in downstream communities.

They also called for a comprehensive floodplain resettlement programme that would provide planned settlements, adequate compensation and sustainable livelihood support for residents whose communities are exposed to recurring flooding.

The lawmakers further called for an independent technical review of dam operations, reservoir capacity and spillway performance to determine how future water releases could be better managed and their impact on downstream communities minimised.