Residents of Cross River State have been advised to remain alert as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecasts moderate to heavy rainfall across parts of the state on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, with possible localised flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
NiMet issued the warning in its Daily Weather Outlook released on Tuesday, August 11, forecasting thunderstorms and varying levels of rainfall across several parts of Nigeria.
For Cross River and other southern states, the agency said cloudy conditions are expected in the morning, with chances of light rainfall over parts of the South-South and South-East regions.
However, the situation is expected to become more intense later in the day.
According to the forecast, moderate to heavy rainfall is expected over parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom during the afternoon and evening, while other parts of the southern region may experience light to moderate rainfall.
Residents in flood-prone areas urged to stay alert
The forecast is particularly important for residents living around low-lying communities, areas with poor drainage and locations that are already vulnerable to flooding.
NiMet warned that thunderstorms may be accompanied by strong winds, lightning and reduced visibility.
The agency also urged motorists to exercise caution during rainfall, particularly warning them against driving through flooded roads or areas where water is flowing rapidly.
For Cross River, where heavy rainfall can quickly affect roads, drainage channels and communities, residents are advised to take the warning seriously and avoid unnecessary movement during severe rainfall.
The latest warning also comes against the background of NiMet's broader 2026 flood-risk monitoring. The agency has previously identified flash-flood risks as a concern during the peak of the rainy season, particularly in low-lying, coastal and poorly drained locations.
Rainfall expected across several states
The warning is not limited to Cross River.
In the North, NiMet forecasts morning thunderstorms with moderate rainfall over parts of Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna and Kano.
By the afternoon and evening, thunderstorms with moderate rainfall are expected over parts of Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Yobe, Bauchi, Borno, Adamawa and Taraba states.
Across the North-Central region, the agency forecasts thunderstorms and light rainfall over parts of Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi and the Federal Capital Territory in the morning, with moderate rainfall expected over much of the region later in the day.
What Cross River residents should watch out for
With moderate to heavy rainfall expected, residents should pay attention to rapidly rising water around drainage channels, roads and other flood-prone locations.
Motorists are particularly advised to avoid attempting to cross flooded roads or areas with strong water flow.
NiMet's warning of reduced visibility, lightning and strong winds also means residents should exercise caution during thunderstorms and stay informed through updated weather advisories.
The agency also advised airline operators to obtain updated weather information and advisories from NiMet for proper planning and safe operations.
As the rainy season continues, the latest forecast is a reminder to Cross River residents and relevant authorities that early warnings are important in reducing the impact of flooding and other weather-related hazards.
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