NiMet Urges Farmers to Plant with June Rains, Warns of Flooding Risks

News in Brief:

—NiMet has advised farmers to begin planting with the June rains, especially in states where the rainy season is already well established, while ensuring they follow local weather advisories.

—The agency also warned that the same rains that support crop growth could trigger flooding, waterlogging, pests and crop diseases, prompting calls for proper drainage and cleaner livestock shelters.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has urged farmers across Nigeria to take advantage of the increased rainfall expected in June for planting, while also stepping up measures to protect farms from flooding, pests and crop diseases.

In its June 2026 Weather Outlook, the agency said the rainy season is now fully established in many northern states, creating more favourable conditions for farming activities.

NiMet said farmers in Sokoto, Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Yobe and Borno states should begin planting in line with local rainfall patterns and official agrometeorological advisories. The agency also forecast above-normal rainfall in several parts of the country, including the South-West, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, parts of Plateau and Kaduna states, as well as Yobe, Sokoto, Kebbi, Borno and the Federal Capital Territory.

Flood Warnings and Advisory

The weather agency warned that although the rains would support crop growth, they could also raise the risk of flooding in low-lying communities and farmlands. It said farmers should clear drainage channels around their farms to reduce waterlogging and limit crop losses.

NiMet added that temperatures are expected to be lower than in previous months because of increased cloud cover and rainfall, a development that could ease heat stress on crops, livestock and farmers working on the fields.

“Farmers are encouraged to commence planting activities in line with local rainfall establishment and NiMet agrometeorological advisories. Adequate field drainage should be maintained to minimise waterlogging and crop losses,” the outlook reads.

The agency also advised livestock farmers to keep animal shelters dry and clean to reduce the likelihood of disease outbreaks that often occur during the rainy season. It urged them to monitor farms closely for waterlogging, pests and disease outbreaks as rainfall intensifies across the country.

“Take advantage of established rainfall for planting activities. Monitor farms for waterlogging, pests and disease outbreaks. Maintain proper drainage around farmlands and livestock facilities. Monitor crops and livestock for weather-related diseases and pest outbreaks,” the agency said.

NiMet said June is expected to bring widespread rainfall, more thunderstorms, cooler weather and a higher risk of flooding in some areas, making it important for farmers and communities to remain alert and follow weather advisories throughout the season.