The Federal Government has warned that parts of 10 states across Nigeria may experience heavy rainfall that could trigger flooding between April 8 and April 12, 2026.
The alert was issued by the National Flood Early Warning Centre under the Federal Ministry of Environment in a flood prediction notice dated April 8, 2026, and signed by the Director of the Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department, Usman Bokani.
According to the notice, several communities are at risk of heavy downpours within the forecast period. The affected states include Ebonyi, Anambra, Ogun, Taraba, Cross River, Benue, Imo, Delta, Rivers, and Abia.
In Ebonyi State, Afikpo and Nkalagu are likely to be impacted, while Atani, Iyowa Odekpe, Odekpe, and Onitsha are listed in Anambra State. Ayetoro and Ilaro in Ogun State are also expected to witness heavy rainfall.
The ministry further identified Donga, Kwata Kanawa, Lau, Serti, Takum, and Yorro in Taraba State, as well as Edor, Ikom, and Itigidi in Cross River State, as vulnerable locations.
Other areas include Igumale in Benue State; Nworievbi, Okigwe, Otoko, and Owerri in Imo State; Oko Anara in Delta State; Port Harcourt in Rivers State; and Umuahia in Abia State.
The ministry cautioned that these locations and surrounding areas may experience rainfall intense enough to cause flooding during the period.
The development follows earlier warnings by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Federal Government, which advised farmers against early planting due to “deceptive” rains recorded in February and early March 2026. In March, the Lagos State Government also urged residents to prepare for heavy rainfall and possible flash floods as the rainy season approaches.
Authorities have urged residents and relevant stakeholders in the affected areas to take precautionary measures to mitigate potential impacts.
