The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted a mix of sunny and cloudy weather across the country from Monday to Wednesday, with isolated thunderstorms expected in some southern states.
The agency released the weather outlook on Sunday from its headquarters in Abuja, providing guidance for residents, drivers, and airline operators to plan their activities and ensure safety during the forecast period.
According to NiMet, the northern region of the country is expected to experience predominantly sunny skies throughout the three days. The agency also anticipates a sunny and hazy atmosphere over parts of Jigawa, Yobe, and Borno States on Wednesday. The remainder of the northern region will continue to enjoy bright, sunny conditions.
“Sunny skies are anticipated over the northern region throughout the forecast period,” the agency said. “Drivers should take caution in areas where haze is expected, particularly in Jigawa, Yobe, and Borno States on Wednesday.”
For the central region, NiMet predicted sunny weather with occasional patches of clouds throughout the three-day period. This will provide relatively clear skies for residents, although slight variations in cloud cover may occur during the afternoons or evenings.
In the southern region, sunny weather is also expected, accompanied by some clouds. However, the agency warned of isolated thunderstorms and light rains in parts of Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Imo, Abia, and Osun States, especially in the afternoons and evenings.
“Sunny skies with patches of clouds are anticipated over the southern region, with prospects of isolated thunderstorms later in the day,” the forecast stated. “Light rains are expected in parts of Abia, Edo, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Bayelsa States during the afternoon or evening hours.”
NiMet’s forecast for Tuesday indicated that the northern region would continue to enjoy sunny skies, while the central region will have sunny weather with a few clouds. The southern region will remain mostly sunny, but isolated thunderstorms are likely to develop later in the day. The states expected to receive light rains include Abia, Edo, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Bayelsa.
For Wednesday, the northern region will see a sunny and hazy atmosphere over parts of Jigawa, Yobe, and Borno, with the rest of the region experiencing clear skies. The central region will continue to enjoy sunny weather, while the southern region will experience sunny skies with some cloudiness. Light rains are again expected in parts of Anambra, Oyo, Edo, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Bayelsa States later in the day.
NiMet advised motorists to exercise caution while driving during rain, noting that wet roads and reduced visibility could increase the risk of accidents. “Driving under rain should be with caution,” the agency said.
Airline operators were also urged to obtain airport-specific weather reports, known as flight documentation, to ensure effective planning of operations and safety for passengers. This advisory comes as the rainy season continues to affect flight schedules in some regions.
The agency’s forecast is part of ongoing efforts to provide timely and accurate weather information to the public, helping residents and businesses plan daily activities, farming operations, transportation, and other outdoor engagements. NiMet frequently issues updates, including warnings for severe weather events such as thunderstorms, heavy rains, and haze conditions.
The 3-day forecast also highlights the typical weather patterns in different regions of Nigeria. The northern region generally experiences dry and sunny weather during this period, with occasional haze caused by dust from the Sahara Desert. The central region has a mix of sun and clouds, reflecting transitional weather conditions between the dry north and the humid south. In the southern region, occasional thunderstorms and light rains are common, especially during the afternoon and evening hours, due to the area’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
Farmers and residents in the southern states are advised to monitor the weather closely, as sudden thunderstorms and rains could affect agricultural activities, outdoor events, and daily commuting. Similarly, residents in northern and central states should take note of haze conditions that may reduce visibility and affect road travel.
NiMet also reminded the public to continue monitoring local news and official channels for any updates or changes in the weather forecast. The agency emphasized that timely awareness of weather conditions can help prevent accidents, crop damage, and other risks associated with sudden weather changes.
In recent years, NiMet has increasingly relied on satellite data, ground observations, and computer models to provide more accurate weather forecasts. This approach allows the agency to give early warnings about severe weather events, helping Nigerians plan and respond effectively.
Residents are encouraged to take preventive measures in line with the forecast. Motorists should drive cautiously during rain, ensure that vehicle lights are functioning, and avoid speeding on wet or slippery roads. Farmers should protect crops from potential heavy rain or localized thunderstorms, while outdoor event organizers are advised to make contingency plans in case of sudden weather changes.
