Nation on Edge as Flood Fears Grow — Lagos Experience Sparks Fresh Panic
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has sounded the alarm over another round of severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall expected to lash 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) today, September 25, sparking nationwide concern over possible flooding and displacement.
The forecast comes on the heels of recent torrential downpours that forced thousands of residents out of their homes in Lagos and other parts of the country, raising the spectre of fresh devastation if the looming storms hit with full force.
In its weather outlook released on Wednesday, September 24, NiMet cautioned that thunderstorms and rains could trigger flash floods, disrupt outdoor activities, reduce road visibility, and create treacherous driving conditions across multiple regions.
> “Residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas, must take precautionary measures. Motorists are advised to drive with extreme caution during rainfall,” NiMet warned.
Breakdown of Forecast
Morning: Isolated thunderstorms with light rains are expected in Taraba, Zamfara, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, and Adamawa.
Afternoon & Evening: Thunderstorms with moderate rains will sweep across Jigawa, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Adamawa, and Taraba.
Central States: Cloudy conditions with spells of sunshine, but isolated thunderstorms over Niger, Kwara, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, Kogi, and the FCT.
Southern Region: Cloudy skies with light rains in Cross River by morning, intensifying into isolated thunderstorms and moderate rains across most southern states by afternoon and evening.
Full List of Affected States
1. Adamawa
2. Jigawa
3. Borno
4. Yobe
5. Niger
6. Kwara
7. Nasarawa
8. Kogi
9. Benue
10. Plateau
11. Cross River
12. FCT, Abuja
13. Taraba
14. Zamfara
15. Kaduna
16. Kano
17. Bauchi
18. Gombe
19. Lagos (previously affected, still on alert)
Rising National Concern
With memories of past floods still fresh — particularly the 2022 flood disaster that killed over 600 people and displaced millions nationwide — citizens are expressing deep anxiety. Emergency agencies are already on standby, while state governments have been urged to activate response mechanisms to mitigate potential disasters.
NiMet emphasized its role not only in forecasting weather patterns but also in guiding national climate policy, stressing that timely compliance with its advisories could save countless lives and property.
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