NiMet Warn Nigerians Of Heat Stress Risk As It Predicts 3-Day Thunderstorms, Dust Haze Across Nigeria.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a mix of thunderstorms, sunshine, and slight dust haze across various parts of the country from Monday to Wednesday, with a cautionary note on rising temperatures and the risks of heat stress.

In a three-day weather outlook released Sunday in Abuja, NiMet outlined distinct weather patterns for the northern, central, and southern regions of the country, urging citizens to take safety precautions.

According to the forecast, the northern region will experience slight dust haze on Monday, accompanied by possible afternoon and evening thunderstorms in parts of Adamawa, Taraba, and Kaduna States.

By Tuesday and Wednesday, sunny and hazy skies are expected to persist, with isolated thunderstorms in Kaduna, Taraba, Adamawa, Sokoto, and Kebbi.

“The atmosphere will remain dry and hot across much of the North, but isolated storms could bring brief relief in some locations,” NiMet stated.

For the North Central region, NiMet predicted sunny skies with patches of clouds from Monday to Wednesday, alongside isolated thunderstorms during the afternoon or evening in parts of Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, and Benue States.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, similar conditions are expected to continue with sunny weather and isolated thunderstorms, especially later in the day.

In the South, residents should prepare for cloudy skies with intervals of sunshine and frequent thunderstorms throughout the forecast period.

“On Monday morning, isolated thunderstorms are likely in Cross River and Akwa Ibom, with more widespread thunderstorm activity anticipated across the region later in the day,” NiMet said.

For Tuesday, morning thunderstorms are expected in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Cross River, with afternoon or evening storms in most southern states. By Wednesday, Delta, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom will likely experience morning thunderstorms, followed by more storms in the afternoon across the South.

NiMet warned that high temperatures across the country may lead to heat stress, urging Nigerians to take preventive measures.

“The public is advised to stay in well-ventilated, cool spaces, drink plenty of water, and avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours between noon and 3 p.m.,” the agency cautioned.

In light of the dusty and stormy conditions, NiMet further recommended health and safety practices.

“People should maintain good hygiene, wash hands regularly, avoid overcrowded places, and wear nose masks to reduce the risk of respiratory infections,” it added.

NiMet also alerted airline operators about potential disruptions from strong winds and storms.

“Strong winds may precede thunderstorms in affected areas, and we advise airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet for better planning and passenger safety,” the statement read.

Citizens were encouraged to remain updated on weather developments via the NiMet website at www.nimet.gov.ng.