NiMet warns of nationwide thunderstorms and flooding this Thursday
NiMet issued a forecast on Wednesday calling for widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across most of Nigeria on Thursday, with possible localized flooding. Northern states including Gombe, Bauchi, Kaduna, Adamawa and Taraba may see morning clouds with thunderstorms and light rain, while later in the day Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Borno and Taraba could experience isolated thunderstorms with moderate rain, lightning and strong winds. In the North Central region, expect thunderstorms with light rain in the morning over Niger, Kwara, Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Nasarawa and the FCT, followed by more widespread thunderstorms and moderate rain later. Southern states such as Lagos, Ogun, Ondo and Ekiti will see morning rain that spreads to most of the region by afternoon and evening, raising flood risks in low‑lying, poorly drained areas.
The warning matters because recent weeks have seen severe flooding in Lagos and other parts of the country, where blocked drains, rapid urbanisation and loss of wetlands have reduced the land’s ability to absorb stormwater. Heavy rain can disrupt transport, damage homes and businesses, and threaten lives.
Residents should avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, drive cautiously during rain and poor visibility, and never shelter under tall trees during thunderstorms due to lightning risk. Airline operators are advised to obtain airport‑specific weather reports from NiMet. Experts also recommend keeping drainage channels clear, protecting wetlands, enforcing development controls in flood‑prone zones and investing in stronger flood control infrastructure. Will you adjust your travel plans or take extra precautions to stay safe during the expected storms?