The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a mix of sunshine, cloudiness, and isolated thunderstorms across the country from Monday to Wednesday. The agency said the weather conditions would vary across regions, with most parts of the country experiencing sunny skies, while some southern states may record light rainfall and thunderstorms.
NiMet released the three-day weather outlook on Sunday in Abuja. According to the agency, the forecast is aimed at helping residents, farmers, transport operators, and other stakeholders plan their daily activities and take safety precautions where necessary.
In its report, NiMet said the northern region of the country is expected to experience mainly sunny and cloudy skies throughout the three-day period. The agency noted that the weather would remain generally stable in the North, with no major rainfall expected.
“The northern region will experience sunny and cloudy skies throughout the forecast period,” NiMet stated.
This condition, NiMet explained, is typical of the dry season, when most parts of northern Nigeria experience limited rainfall, clear skies, and dusty conditions. During this period, haze and dust particles are common, especially in the afternoon and evening.
For the southern region, NiMet predicted sunny skies with patches of clouds during the day. However, it warned that there would be chances of isolated thunderstorms accompanied by light rains in some coastal and inland states.
According to the agency, states likely to experience light rainfall later in the day include Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River. These areas are part of Nigeria’s coastal belt, where moisture from the Atlantic Ocean often leads to cloud build-up and rainfall.
On Tuesday, NiMet forecast sunny and hazy skies over the northern and central parts of the country. The agency said the haze could reduce visibility in some areas, especially during the early morning and late evening hours.
“Sunny and hazy skies are anticipated over the northern and central regions during the forecast period,” NiMet said.
For the southern region on Tuesday, NiMet predicted sunny skies with patches of clouds. The agency added that there are chances of thunderstorms with light rains in some states during the morning hours.
States listed for possible morning rainfall include Ogun, Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River. These early morning rains are expected to be light and isolated, meaning they may not affect all parts of the states.
Later in the day on Tuesday, NiMet said thunderstorms are expected to occur in parts of Ondo, Ogun, Imo, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Bayelsa states. Residents in these areas were advised to be cautious, especially during periods of rainfall and thunderstorms.
Thunderstorms are common during periods of weather transition, particularly in the southern part of Nigeria. They are often accompanied by strong winds, lightning, and brief but heavy rainfall, which can disrupt daily activities.
For Wednesday, NiMet forecast sunny and hazy skies over the northern region during the morning hours. The agency also warned that dust haze is expected to increase during the afternoon and evening periods.
Dust haze occurs when fine dust particles are suspended in the air, often reducing visibility and affecting air quality. This condition is common during the dry season and can have health effects, especially for people with respiratory problems.
The central region is expected to experience sunny and hazy skies throughout Wednesday. NiMet said the weather would remain largely dry in this part of the country.
In the southern region, NiMet predicted cloudy skies with sunny intervals during the morning hours. The agency also forecast chances of isolated thunderstorms with light rainfall in several states.
States likely to be affected include Anambra, Imo, Abia, Edo, Bayelsa, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers. NiMet explained that the rainfall would be scattered and may not be widespread.
The agency advised members of the public to take necessary precautions, especially those with health conditions. NiMet warned that haze and dust could worsen breathing difficulties for people with asthma and other respiratory issues.
“People with asthmatic conditions and other respiratory problems are advised to take heed of the present weather condition,” the agency said.
NiMet also cautioned motorists to be careful when driving during rainfall, as wet roads and reduced visibility could increase the risk of accidents. Drivers were advised to slow down and avoid driving through flooded areas.
Airline operators were also advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet for effective planning of their operations. The agency said such reports, also known as flight documentation, are important for ensuring flight safety and reducing delays.
NiMet plays a key role in providing weather and climate information across Nigeria. Its forecasts support sectors such as agriculture, aviation, transportation, disaster management, and public health.
Accurate weather information is especially important for farmers, who rely on rainfall patterns to plan planting and harvesting. It is also vital for fishermen, road users, and emergency agencies.
In recent years, NiMet has continued to improve its forecasting systems and public awareness efforts. The agency regularly uses radio, television, and online platforms to share weather updates with Nigerians.
For now, NiMet has urged Nigerians to stay informed, follow weather updates, and take safety measures as the country experiences a mix of sunshine, clouds, haze, and light rainfall over the next three days.