By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage— The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a medium flood risk advisory for 13 states across the country, warning that localized flooding is expected along major river channels between July 14 and July 20, 2026.
According to the agency, communities located around Saminara on the Karam River, Waya Dam Site on the Waya River, and Amber on the Amber River should remain on high alert as rising water levels may trigger flooding during the seven-day period.
NIHSA identified Adamawa, Borno, Bauchi, Kaduna, Edo, and Imo among the states expected to face significant flood threats, with seven additional states also placed under surveillance.
In Adamawa State, the affected local government areas include Demsa, Lamurde, and Numan, where about 147 communities, 49 schools, and 40 health facilities have been identified as being at risk.
The agency also warned that 680 communities, eight schools, and six health facilities in Gubio and Mobbar Local Government Areas of Borno State could be impacted by flooding.
Other vulnerable areas include Bauchi, Ningi, and Shira in Bauchi State; Chikun, Giwa, Igabi, Jaba, Jema’a, Kachia, Kaura, and Kauru in Kaduna State; several local government areas in Edo, including Akoko-Edo, Etsako East, Etsako West, Ikpoba-Okha, Orhionmwon, Ovia North-East, and Ovia South-West; as well as Aboh-Mbaise, Oguta, Ohaji/Egbema, Okigwe, Owerri North, and Owerri West in Imo State.
As part of its advisory, NIHSA urged residents in flood-prone communities to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, or fast-moving water, whether on foot or by vehicle.
The agency further advised those living in floodplains to relocate to higher ground where necessary, secure livestock and valuables, clear drainage channels, and prepare emergency kits containing clean water, first-aid supplies, and other essential items.
NIHSA also encouraged the public to closely monitor its daily river level updates and heed warnings issued by relevant emergency management agencies.
The agency stressed that early preparedness and strict adherence to safety measures remain critical to minimizing the impact of flooding on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure during the advisory period.
