The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NiHSA, has issued a high flood risk alert to 15 states as rising river levels increase the possibility of riverine flooding between September 19 and 25.
The alert, designated NFA-2026-262, covers Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Kogi, Taraba, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu and Abia States.
In statement signed by the NiHSA Director-General, Mr Umar Mohammed, in Abuja says nine river stations had been identified as being at risk and required close monitoring.
The statement says the locations highlighted are Obubra, Itigidi and Epento along the Cross River.
It urges state governments, local government councils, emergency management authorities, traditional institutions and community leaders to take immediate precautionary measures in vulnerable areas.
The statement advises residents in flood-prone communities to move people, livestock and valuables to safer and higher ground where necessary.
According to the statement, assessment showed that significant populations and critical infrastructure were exposed to flood risks across the affected areas.
It adds that in Cross River State alone, the assessment identified 2,471 communities, 703 schools, 344 health facilities, 145 markets, 453 religious centres and 854 hectares of farmland within the identified exposure areas.
The statement urges communities to activate local early-warning and response mechanisms while monitoring the agency’s flood advisories and river-level updates.
It also cautions residents against crossing flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water, whether on foot or in vehicles.
The statement calls on relevant authorities and communities to pre-position relief materials, safe drinking water, water-treatment supplies and first-aid materials in vulnerable locations.
It further urges authorities to identify and prepare safe shelters for possible temporary evacuation.
According to the statement, the Director-General advises residents to clear blocked drainage channels and river outlets where it was safe to do so, while warning against construction or habitation in vulnerable floodplain areas.
It adds that early action and strict adherence to official flood warnings remained critical to reducing the risk of loss of lives, property and livelihoods.
According to the statement, NiHSA promises to monitor hydrological conditions and river levels across the affected areas and issue further updates when necessary.
