The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a fresh weather alert, warning Nigerians to prepare for three consecutive days of thunderstorms and high temperatures across various parts of the country. The forecast, which spans from Sunday, April 21 to Tuesday, April 23, 2024, predicts localised and isolated thunderstorms in both the northern and southern regions, with potential for strong winds and heat-related health issues.
The agency released the alert on Saturday in Abuja, advising the public, particularly vulnerable groups and transport operators, to take necessary precautions during the forecast period.
According to NiMet, the weather on Sunday will start with partly cloudy skies over most parts of the North Central region, including areas like the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, and Kogi States. By the afternoon and evening hours, isolated thunderstorms are expected to develop across Taraba, Adamawa, and southern Kaduna States in the North.
The stormy conditions will spread to central states later in the day, affecting Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, and more areas in the FCT. These storms may be accompanied by strong winds, which could damage weak structures, billboards, or trees.
In the South, the day will begin with cloudy skies, particularly over Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Delta States, with chances of early morning rain. By the afternoon, the storm clouds are expected to gather strength and spread to more areas, including Anambra, Oyo, Ondo, Edo, Imo, Abia, Ekiti, Bayelsa, and Delta.
On Monday, April 22, NiMet forecasts sunny skies across much of the northern region, including Kano, Sokoto, and Borno, during the morning hours. However, areas such as Adamawa, Kaduna, and Taraba may still experience isolated thunderstorms by the afternoon.
In the North Central zone, the morning is expected to be dry with scattered clouds, but thunderstorms are forecasted to return in the later hours, especially in Benue, Plateau, Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the FCT.
For the southern states, the morning will bring cloudy conditions with intervals of sunshine, along with possible early rain in Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River States. Thunderstorms are likely to become more widespread later in the day, affecting areas such as Ondo, Lagos, Edo, Oyo, Imo, Anambra, Abia, and Delta.
On Tuesday, April 23, the forecast continues with sunny skies in the North during the early hours. However, some areas such as Taraba, Adamawa, and Kaduna States are expected to see thunderstorms in the afternoon.
In the North Central region, Benue and Kogi may see some rainfall later in the day, while areas like Plateau, Kwara, Nasarawa, and the FCT are expected to experience isolated thunderstorms as well.
In the South, cloudy conditions will persist in the morning, especially in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Lagos. By afternoon and evening, thunderstorms are forecasted in Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Ondo, Edo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, and other coastal states.
Alongside the rain and thunderstorms, NiMet has raised serious concerns about high temperatures expected in several parts of the country. The agency warned that this could lead to heat stress, a condition that can cause dehydration, fatigue, and even more serious health risks if not properly managed.
NiMet advised Nigerians to:
– Stay in cool and well-ventilated areas
– Drink plenty of water regularly
– Wear light and breathable clothing
– Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (12 noon to 3 pm)
– Use hats, umbrellas, or other forms of sun protection when outdoors
Due to the hot and dry conditions in parts of the country, particularly the North, NiMet also warned of the increased risk of meningitis and respiratory infections.
To reduce health risks, the agency urged Nigerians to:
– Get vaccinated against meningitis
– Wash hands regularly with soap and water
– Avoid overcrowded spaces, especially in poorly ventilated areas
– Use nose masks, particularly in dusty environments
– Avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms
These health recommendations are important, especially in communities where access to medical care may be limited.
NiMet also directed airline operators and transport companies to take note of the weather alert. Thunderstorms and strong winds could lead to flight delays, turbulence, or unsafe road conditions, particularly in areas with poor drainage systems.
The agency said all operators should obtain airport-specific weather forecasts to guide planning and flight safety.
Drivers were also advised to be cautious during rainfall, especially at night when visibility may be poor. In flood-prone areas, motorists should avoid driving through water-logged roads.
Nigeria’s weather is largely influenced by seasonal changes, especially the transition from dry to rainy season, which begins around April in most southern states and gradually spreads northward by June or July.
This transitional period is often marked by heavy downpours, gusty winds, and intense heat, especially before full rainfall sets in.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, established to monitor and forecast weather conditions, plays a vital role in helping citizens and sectors like agriculture, aviation, and health prepare for climate-related risks.
As the rainy season gradually sets in, NiMet’s forecast serves as a timely reminder for Nigerians to take weather warnings seriously. The next few days may bring relief from the heat in some areas, but they also come with the risk of thunderstorms, flooding, and strong winds.
NiMet has called on the public to stay updated through daily weather reports available on its official website and through news outlets and radio stations.
“Strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur. The public should take adequate precaution,” the agency stated.
For updates, safety tips, and daily forecasts, visit www.nimet.gov.ng.
