The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has forecast three days of dust haze and cloudy weather across the country from Monday to Wednesday.
In its weather outlook released on Sunday in Abuja, NiMet said most parts of the northern and North Central regions will experience dust haze during the period. The agency also predicted cloudiness and thunderstorms in parts of the southern states.
Dust haze is common in Nigeria during the dry season, especially when dry winds blow from the Sahara Desert across the country. This weather condition, often linked with the harmattan season, reduces visibility and can affect people with breathing problems.
According to NiMet, a slight dust haze is expected across the northern region on Monday. However, some states, including Borno and Yobe, may experience moderate dust haze with horizontal visibility ranging from two to five kilometres.
The agency explained that this means people may find it harder to see clearly over long distances, especially motorists and pilots.
NiMet said the North Central region, which includes states such as the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Kogi, Benue and Plateau, will also experience slight dust haze throughout Monday.
On Tuesday, the agency predicted that the dust haze in the northern region will become moderate, with visibility still ranging between two and five kilometres.
By Wednesday, NiMet warned that a thick dust haze is expected across both the northern and North Central regions. Thick dust haze can further reduce visibility and increase the amount of dust particles in the air.
Weather experts say dust particles in suspension can cause discomfort, especially for people with asthma and other respiratory conditions. It can also lead to dry skin, eye irritation and throat problems.
NiMet advised residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions. According to the agency, people who have breathing challenges should be particularly careful during this period.
Over the years, dust haze has disrupted road travel and flight operations in parts of northern Nigeria. Poor visibility sometimes leads to delays or cancellations of flights, especially in airports located in cities such as Kano, Kaduna and Abuja.
To reduce risks, NiMet advised airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather reports from the agency for proper flight planning and safe operations.
The agency also called on motorists to drive carefully during dusty conditions. Reduced visibility can increase the chances of road accidents if drivers fail to slow down or use their headlights properly.
While the northern part of the country will battle dust haze, the southern region is expected to experience a different weather pattern.
NiMet predicted a cloudy atmosphere with intervals of sunshine across southern states throughout the three-day period.
On Monday morning, there are slim chances of thunderstorms over parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states. Later in the day, thunderstorms with light rains are expected over parts of Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Edo, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, Delta and Akwa Ibom.
On Tuesday, morning thunderstorms are again likely in parts of Akwa Ibom and Cross River. Later in the day, thunderstorms with light rains are expected in Lagos, Oyo, Ondo, Ogun, Edo, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, Delta and Akwa Ibom.
By Wednesday, NiMet said the southern region will remain cloudy with intervals of sunshine. Morning thunderstorms are likely in Cross River and Akwa Ibom, while light rains may occur later in the day in Bayelsa, Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Edo, Cross River, Rivers, Delta and Akwa Ibom.
Thunderstorms during the dry season are not unusual in southern Nigeria. The region’s closeness to the Atlantic Ocean often brings moist air, which can lead to cloud formation and rainfall, even when other parts of the country remain dry and dusty.
NiMet also warned residents to be cautious when driving under rain. Wet roads, especially after long dry periods, can become slippery and increase the risk of accidents.
The agency’s regular weather updates play an important role in helping farmers, airline operators, transport companies and the general public plan their daily activities.
Farmers, especially in northern Nigeria, often rely on weather forecasts to protect crops and livestock from extreme conditions. In urban areas, construction workers and event planners also monitor forecasts closely.
NiMet has in recent years increased public awareness about weather changes, climate patterns and the need for early warnings. The agency frequently advises Nigerians to follow its updates through official channels.
As the three-day forecast begins, residents across the country are urged to take precautions. Those in the north and North Central regions should prepare for dusty air and reduced visibility, while those in the south should expect cloudy skies and possible thunderstorms.