The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather forecast that spells a week of sunshine, hazy conditions, and the potential for isolated thunderstorms in various parts of Nigeria. With its outlook for the coming days, NiMet is urging the public to prepare for weather that may cause disruptions and health concerns, particularly in the northern and southern regions.
According to NiMet’s release on Sunday, February 15, the forecast predicts sunny skies across the nation, but with a heavy presence of dust haze that will influence air quality, visibility, and local weather patterns. The agency cautioned residents to take precautions, especially those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, due to the suspended dust particles.
A Nationwide Weather Picture
From Monday to Wednesday, NiMet anticipates a consistent pattern of hazy conditions interspersed with brief spells of sunshine, while some parts of southern Nigeria could experience isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening.
In the North-Central region, NiMet forecasts mild dust haze, a phenomenon that will persist throughout the forecast period. This haze is not expected to dissipate anytime soon, and it could reduce visibility in affected areas, prompting NiMet to advise caution for travelers and motorists.
“The North Central region is expected to experience slight dust haze during the entire forecast period,” NiMet stated in its release.
Meanwhile, southern Nigeria will see cloudy skies with hazy conditions as the primary weather feature. Although the southern states such as Cross River, Lagos, and Delta will remain cloudy, there is still a slim chance of thunderstorms, which NiMet predicts will occur mainly in the late afternoon or evening hours.
A Tuesday of Continued Haziness and Local Thunderstorms
On Tuesday, the forecast remains largely unchanged, with sunny and hazy conditions spread across the country. However, NiMet has pinpointed several states for the likelihood of isolated thunderstorms, particularly in southern regions. In these areas, including Cross River, Bayelsa, and Delta, NiMet predicts thunderstorms will develop in the afternoon and evening, potentially causing disruptions in local areas.
While the northern and central parts of the country continue to experience sunshine and mild haze, southern Nigeria faces an extended period of cloudy skies with sporadic haziness.
For residents in southern Nigeria, it’s essential to stay alert to the forecast updates, as sudden weather shifts could bring brief but intense thunderstorms. NiMet warned that strong winds may precede the thunderstorms, adding to the level of risk for those living in vulnerable areas.
“The southern regions will continue to experience cloudy skies with hazy conditions,” NiMet said. “Isolated thunderstorms are expected in parts of Cross River, Bayelsa, and Delta states in the afternoon and evening.”
Wednesday: A Mixed Bag of Sunshine and Thunderstorms
Looking ahead to Wednesday, the weather will again follow a predictable pattern, with sunny and hazy conditions expected in the northern and North-Central regions. The southern regions, however, will continue to face a blend of cloudy skies and occasional sunshine. NiMet predicts thunderstorms could occur in several southern states, including Ogun, Ondo, Lagos, Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.
The agency strongly advised residents in these areas to stay prepared, as the afternoon and evening thunderstorms may bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds. While these conditions are not expected to be severe, the agency recommended that people in these states remain informed through the latest weather updates.
Health and Safety Concerns
NiMet also highlighted health risks associated with the suspended dust particles, which can exacerbate conditions such as asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Individuals who are vulnerable to these health effects are urged to take necessary precautions, such as avoiding outdoor activities during times of high dust concentration and using protective face masks if necessary.
The agency also advised airline operators to stay updated on specific airport weather conditions and adjust flight plans as needed to mitigate the impact of poor visibility and storm risks. NiMet emphasized that strong winds, which often precede thunderstorms, could present hazards to flight operations, making it imperative for aviation stakeholders to monitor the weather closely.
“Strong winds may precede thunderstorms, and the public is encouraged to adhere to safety advisories from relevant authorities,” NiMet advised in its statement.
The Need for Caution and Preparedness
As NiMet’s forecast suggests, Nigerians are entering a period of uncertain weather that will require extra attention to weather updates and a high level of awareness about personal health and safety. In a country like Nigeria, where weather patterns often influence daily activities, the advisory from NiMet serves as an important reminder for everyone to stay prepared.
From the dusty winds in the north to the storm threats in the south, the public must remain cautious about potential disruptions, especially as the hazy conditions combined with thunderstorms could affect both land and air travel. Residents are encouraged to stay informed via NiMet’s online platform, where real-time updates are available for their specific areas.
Stay Informed and Safe
NiMet’s weather updates are available on the official website, www.nimet.gov.ng, and the agency recommends that the public stay informed through these resources to protect themselves and their families.
For now, Nigerians must brace for a few days of sunshine mixed with haze and the likelihood of thunderstorms—weather that brings not only a change in the atmosphere but also an urgent need for caution as the unpredictable conditions unfold across the nation.
