The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has issued an urgent weather alert for six northern states, covering parts of Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Northern Kaduna, and Zamfara states. The agency predicts severe thunderstorms with strong winds and heavy rainfall in the coming days and further cautioned that the anticipated heavy rains could lead to significant flooding.

Amid these warnings, residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for challenging weather conditions and to avoid flood-prone zones.

The warning, released on Monday, comes after a devastating flood that has struck Nigeria’s northeastern states.

According to the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), at least 49 people have died and thousands have been displaced due to heavy rains and flooding in Jigawa, Adamawa, and Taraba states. NEMA spokesperson Manzo Ezekiel reported that 41,344 individuals have been displaced in the region.

Public and airline operators have also been advised to stay updated with the latest weather reports and forecasts from NiMET to manage their operations effectively.