The National Emergency Management Agency (Sokoto Operations Office) has alerted Kebbi residents to impending flood risks and other weather-related hazards ahead of the 2026 rainy season.

The warning follows projections in the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency.

In a statement on Friday, the head of NEMA Sokoto Operations Office, Tukur Abubakar, said Kebbi “is among states classified as high flood-risk for 2026”.

It said the state was expected to receive significantly more rainfall than in 2025, with heavy, high-intensity downpours likely to trigger flash floods in several communities.

“Kebbi has been classified among Nigeria’s high flood-risk states for 2026 and is projected to experience flooding under high, medium, and low-risk categories across various communities,” the statement added.

NEMA also warned of likely windstorms at the onset of the rainy season and urged residents, institutions, and environmental stakeholders to intensify tree planting and other measures to reduce degradation and storm damage.

It added that riparian communities and low-lying farming settlements along the Kebbi River system were advised to remain vigilant and to comply with flood warnings and evacuation directives issued by relevant authorities.

The agency identified July to September as the most critical flood period, warning that the Kebbi River may overflow and inundate farmlands, riverside settlements, and critical infrastructure.

“Elevated water levels could persist into October and November, prolonging the impact. About 97 road sections across the state are also at risk of flooding,” the statement said.

NEMA urged motorists and commuters to exercise caution, noting that floodwaters could conceal potholes, eroded sections, and damaged bridges, increasing accident risks and disrupting transport routes.

“In addition to flooding, Kebbi may face a severe dry spell of about 21 days between June and August 2026, threatening agricultural activities and crop yields.

“Farmers are advised to adopt climate-smart practices, including planting drought-tolerant and early-maturing crops. The affected Local Government Areas are Arewa, Dandi, Aleiro, Kalgo, Bunza, Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, Augie, Jega, and Maiyama,” it noted.

NEMA urged residents to clear drainage and waterways, avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse, relocate from flood-prone areas, and refrain from building on waterways and floodplains.

It advised households to prepare emergency kits with food, potable water, medications, and important documents, and to switch off electricity and secure homes before evacuating to prevent accidents and electrocution.

The statement also urged communities to report early signs of flooding to local leaders and Local Government Emergency Committees.

NEMA further encouraged investments in mitigation measures such as sandbags, embankments, and improved drainage.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to working with the state government, local authorities, traditional institutions, emergency responders, and other stakeholders to reduce disaster risks and protect lives and property.

The statement urged residents to remain calm, stay informed through official channels, and comply with all safety advisories throughout the 2026 rainy season.

(NAN)