The Kaduna State Government has intensified public sensitisation and emergency preparedness measures following warnings by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency that the state could experience flooding during the 2026 rainy season.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, the action followed the release of NiMet’s 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction report, which identified Kaduna among states likely to witness above-normal rainfall this year.

Maiyaki said rainfall in Kaduna is expected to begin between May 19 and June 10, 2026, while the rainy season is projected to end between October 5 and October 21, 2026.

The report also warned of a possible severe 21-day dry spell between June and August, which authorities fear could worsen flooding and environmental challenges.

“The Kaduna State Government is taking this forecast seriously. Early preparedness and public cooperation remain critical to reducing the impact of flooding on our communities,” Maiyaki stated.

The commissioner disclosed that the Ministry of Information and Culture, in partnership with the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, had commenced statewide awareness campaigns focused on flood prevention, mitigation, and public safety.

Residents were advised to clear drainage systems around homes and businesses and avoid dumping refuse into waterways.

Maiyaki also urged people living in flood-prone areas to adopt preventive measures such as using sandbags and other local flood-control strategies.

He appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and media groups to support government efforts through public enlightenment and environmental sanitation campaigns.

According to the statement, KADSEMA has already begun vulnerability assessments in high-risk communities, strengthened emergency response coordination, and pre-positioned rescue materials and personnel in vulnerable areas.

Flooding has remained a recurring problem in many parts of Kaduna State in recent years, with heavy rainfall causing damage to homes, roads, farmlands, and public infrastructure.

Communities in Kaduna metropolis, Kafanchan, Zaria, and several riverine areas experienced severe flooding in both 2024 and 2025 due to torrential rains and poor drainage systems.

The renewed preparedness campaign also follows recent warnings by the National Emergency Management Agency that more than 30 Nigerian states could face serious flooding during the 2026 rainy season.