The Federal Government has sounded the alarm over potential flooding in parts of Nigeria, placing 32 states and 832 communities on high alert.

The warning, issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), covers 198 local government areas across the country, including the Federal Capital Territory. The agency said the risk of “high to very high” flooding is expected between August 7 and August 21 due to rising river levels and persistent rainfall.

States on the list include Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, the FCT, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, and Nasarawa. Others are Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.

According to NIHSA Director General Umar Ibrahim, the situation could disrupt transportation routes and affect major communities nationwide. “Over 100 communities and key transport corridors may experience severe disruptions,” he said, referencing the agency’s flood risk map.

NIHSA has urged state governments, local councils, and emergency management agencies to activate their disaster response plans immediately. Communities at risk are advised to prepare evacuation strategies, pay close attention to official updates, and follow safety advisories.

The agency also encouraged Nigerians to regularly check its state-level and community-specific forecasts via the NIHSA flood dashboard and social media platforms.

Seasonal flooding has become a recurring threat in Nigeria, displacing thousands and destroying homes and infrastructure each year. Authorities are urging early action this season to reduce the potential impact.