NiMet forecasts 48 hours of intense rainfall, with potential flooding in 24 states

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather forecast predicting 48 hours of continuous rainfall across parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and 24 states, spanning Thursday to Friday.

According to NiMet’s announcement on Wednesday, the forecast indicates that moderate to heavy rainfall is anticipated in various regions, including Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Plateau, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Enugu, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa states.

Additional states expected to experience these weather conditions include Abia, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, Kwara, Benue, and the FCT.

NiMet has cautioned that this rainfall may result in flash floods and strong winds. The forecast specifies, “Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected within the forecast period of Thursday, September 28th, and Friday, September 29th, 2023.”

These anticipated rainfall patterns are likely to trigger flash floods in affected areas. Furthermore, strong winds are anticipated, with the most robust winds expected over portions of Adamawa, Borno, Gombe, Bauchi, Yobe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi States.

Residents are urged to exercise caution as strong winds can pose a threat to weak structures, trees, and communication masts. It is advisable to disconnect electrical appliances before the onset of rain to avoid potential electrical hazards.

NiMet has issued a warning to residents of the affected states to refrain from driving through surface runoff water due to the presence of strong undercurrents, which can be dangerous.