Flash Flood Alert: Oyo, Anambra Residents Urged to Prepare as Heavy Rains Loom
Authorities activate emergency measures as NiMet forecasts severe rainfall, while Kano intensifies efforts to tackle erosion and flood threats.
Residents of Oyo and Anambra states have been placed on high alert following forecasts of intense rainfall and possible flash floods during the peak of the rainy season. Government agencies and emergency responders are urging communities, particularly those in flood-prone areas, to take precautionary measures as authorities ramp up flood mitigation efforts.
Authorities in Oyo and Anambra states have issued fresh warnings over the threat of flash flooding as the rainy season intensifies across parts of Nigeria.
The alerts follow forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which indicate an increased likelihood of heavy rainfall, high-intensity thunderstorms and surface runoff capable of triggering flooding in several communities.
Oyo Residents Told to Prepare
The Oyo State Government has alerted residents across its 33 local government areas to brace for possible flash floods this month.
Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, said weather forecasts point to severe rainfall conditions that could lead to temporary flooding on major roads and in low-lying communities.
According to him, the state government has intensified the clearing of drainage channels and waterways to reduce the impact of flooding.
However, he stressed that residents must also play their part by ensuring drains around homes and communities remain free from waste materials capable of obstructing water flow.
Aderinto also warned motorists and pedestrians against attempting to cross flooded roads, particularly at night, noting that flash floods can be powerful enough to sweep away vehicles and individuals.
Anambra Activates Flood Awareness Campaign
In Anambra State, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has urged residents of riverine communities to remain vigilant and prepare to relocate to safer areas if water levels continue to rise.
The State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, issued the warning as part of an awareness campaign aimed at reducing the impact of flooding and related disasters during the 2026 rainy season.
The Corps noted that heavy rainfall could increase the risks of flooding, building collapse, erosion and other environmental hazards.
NSCDC officials disclosed that they are working closely with the state government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), local government councils and other stakeholders to implement flood mitigation measures.
Kano Moves Against Erosion Threat
Meanwhile, the Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling environmental degradation, flooding and erosion in vulnerable communities.
Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, gave the assurance during an inspection of the Bulbula Gayawa erosion site, which cuts across Nasarawa and Ungogo Local Government Areas.
Hashim said the project forms part of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s efforts to address long-standing environmental challenges and protect affected communities from future disasters.
He noted that residents had waited years for intervention and expressed confidence that ongoing projects would provide lasting solutions to erosion and flood-related threats.
