Nigeria to Experience Mixed Weather Conditions, NiMet Advises Public on Health Precautions

From Monday to Wednesday, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather forecast for the country that calls for a combination of dust pollution, cloud cover, and sporadic thunderstorms. A warning has been issued by the agency, particularly to those with respiratory conditions, regarding the expected weather conditions. This advice emphasises the importance of wearing masks.

NiMet stated in a statement issued on Sunday from its headquarters in Abuja that the northern and north-central states are anticipated to be enveloped by moderate dust haze, with visibility spanning from 2 to 5 kilometres. On the contrary, Benue, Kogi, and Kwara states may encounter a marginally distinct situation characterised by isolated pockets of cloud cover amidst the hazy atmosphere.

Throughout this time period, sections of cloud are predicted for the southern inland regions, whereas coastal areas can anticipate cloudy mornings with the possibility of isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening in portions of Edo, Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa states.

With the exception of Kwara, Benue, and Kogi, where cloud patches are expected, the northern and north-central regions will continue to experience moderate dust pollution conditions on Tuesday. Isolated thunderstorms are anticipated to occur in the afternoon and evening across a broader region, encompassing portions of the states of Ondo, Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti, Osun, Edo, Imo, Enugu, Lagos, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa, according to the forecast.

NiMet anticipates a marginal amelioration in the northern region by Wednesday, accompanied by a faint dust atmosphere. Later in the day, however, isolated thunderstorms are predicted for portions of the states of Plateau, Kwara, Benue, and Kogi. In the morning, patches of cloud are anticipated in the southern inland and coastal regions. Later in the day, thunderstorms are predicted over portions of the states of Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo, Edo, Oyo, Ondo, Lagos, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Delta.

During this period, NiMet has emphasised the significance of protective measures, recommending that individuals with respiratory conditions, children, the elderly, and children don face masks and warm clothing, respectively. Additionally, the importance of skin and eye protection against the severe weather conditions was underscored by the agency.

Furthermore, for improved operational planning, NiMet recommends that airline operators remain informed of weather reports and forecasts. The advisory emphasises the significance of anticipated weather conditions in relation to flight schedules and visibility.