The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across the country from Monday to Wednesday, with possible flash floods in some regions.

In its weather outlook released on Sunday in Abuja, the agency predicted that parts of the northern region — including Jigawa, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina States — will experience thunderstorms and moderate rainfall on Monday morning. Later in the day, rains are also expected in Kebbi, Adamawa, and Taraba States.

NiMet cautioned that flash flooding could occur in Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano during the forecast period.

For the North Central region, including Niger, Benue, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, and Nasarawa States, NiMet projected cloudy conditions in the morning, followed by light to moderate rainfall, with a heightened risk of flooding in parts of Plateau State.

In the southern region, light to moderate rains are expected over Ondo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States.

The forecast further indicated that Tuesday will bring sunny skies with patches of cloud in most northern states, while thunderstorms and rain are likely to persist in Adamawa, Taraba, and surrounding areas. Central and southern states are also expected to experience continued moderate rainfall.

By Wednesday, sunshine and thunderstorms are predicted over northern areas in the morning, while the central region will see cloudy skies and moderate rainfall. The southern states — particularly Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River — are expected to experience morning showers that may intensify into moderate to heavy rains later in the day.

NiMet advised residents in flood-prone communities to remain alert and implement precautionary measures, including avoiding driving during heavy rains, securing loose objects, and safeguarding lives and property against strong winds and potential flash floods.

The agency also warned against taking shelter under trees during storms and urged the public to disconnect electrical appliances when lightning is observed.

Airline operators were advised to always obtain airport-specific weather reports to ensure safe flight planning.

For more detailed and real-time updates, residents are encouraged to visit NiMet’s official website at http://www.nimet.gov.ng.