The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised Nigerians living in flood-prone communities to relocate to safer locations as heavy rainfall continues to intensify across several parts of the country, raising the risk of widespread flooding.

The agency warned that the peak of the rainy season could trigger severe flooding in vulnerable communities if residents fail to heed early warning advisories and take necessary precautionary measures.

The appeal comes amid increasing rainfall in many states and renewed concerns over the potential impact of floods on lives, property, infrastructure and agricultural activities.

NEMA urged residents, particularly those living near rivers, floodplains and low-lying areas, to relocate temporarily to designated safer locations where necessary.

The agency also encouraged state governments, local authorities and community leaders to intensify public awareness campaigns, monitor water levels and activate emergency response mechanisms ahead of possible flooding.

Residents were further advised to avoid dumping refuse into drainage channels, as blocked waterways significantly increase the risk of urban flooding.

Flooding remains one of Nigeria’s most recurring natural disasters, with several states experiencing devastating floods during previous rainy seasons.

Experts have attributed the recurring incidents to a combination of heavy rainfall, poor urban planning, blocked drainage systems, encroachment on natural waterways and the effects of climate change.

Communities situated along major river basins, including those connected to the Rivers Niger and Benue, are often among the most vulnerable during periods of sustained rainfall.

NEMA said it is working with State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), local governments and humanitarian partners to strengthen preparedness and ensure rapid response where flooding occurs.

The agency urged residents to remain alert, follow official weather forecasts and evacuation directives, and report emergencies promptly to relevant authorities.

Emergency officials also advised households to prepare emergency kits containing essential items such as drinking water, medications, important documents, flashlights and communication devices in case evacuation becomes necessary.

Disaster management experts say reducing the impact of flooding requires collective action from government agencies and the public.

They stressed that while infrastructure improvements and drainage maintenance are essential, compliance with safety advisories by residents is equally important in preventing avoidable loss of life and property.

As the rainy season progresses, authorities have reiterated the need for vigilance, particularly in communities identified as being at high risk of flooding.

Flooding continues to pose a significant humanitarian, environmental and economic challenge in Nigeria, displacing thousands of people and causing billions of naira in losses almost every year.

Early warning systems and public cooperation remain among the most effective tools for reducing casualties and protecting vulnerable communities.