The Federal Government has warned of a high risk of riverine flooding in 15 states between September 19 and 25.
The warning was contained in a national flood advisory issued on Friday by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
The agency said rising river levels could trigger flooding in communities located on floodplains during the seven-day window.
The states at risk are Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Kogi, Taraba, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu and Abia.
NIHSA identified nine river stations that require close monitoring, including Obubra, Itigidi and Epento on the Cross River.
It said significant populations and critical infrastructure are exposed to the risk.
In a statement on Saturday, NIHSA Director-General, Umar Mohammed, called on state and local emergency management authorities, traditional rulers and community leaders to take immediate precautionary measures.
He advised residents in flood-prone communities to move people, livestock and valuables to safer, higher ground where necessary.
Mohammed also urged relevant authorities and communities to pre-position relief materials, safe drinking water, water-treatment supplies and first-aid kits, and to identify and prepare safe shelters for possible temporary evacuation.
He asked communities to activate local early-warning and response mechanisms, monitor the agency’s flood advisories and river-level updates, and clear blocked drainage channels and river outlets where safe to do so.
He warned against construction or habitation in vulnerable floodplain areas and cautioned residents against crossing flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water, whether on foot or in vehicles.
According to him, early action and compliance with official flood warnings are critical to reducing the risk of loss of lives, property and livelihoods.
The NIHSA DG added that the agency will continue to monitor hydrological conditions and river levels and issue further updates as necessary.
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