The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) is alerting citizens to a forecast marked by a mix of sunshine, haze, and localized thunderstorms. The agency issued this weather outlook on Wednesday in Abuja, providing critical insights for the public about the atmospheric conditions expected across various regions of the country from Thursday to Saturday.
The agency’s forecast indicates a predominantly sunny yet hazy atmosphere in the northeastern states of Borno, Adamawa, and Taraba on Thursday, with moderate dust haze likely to characterize the latter part of the day. Areas of the northern region can expect localized horizontal visibility ranging between 2 kilometers to 5 kilometers, creating challenges for motorists and outdoor activities.
Estimates for the North Central region reveal a similar pattern, with moderate dust haze expected, reducing visibility to the same range. Residents and commuters are advised to exercise caution due to the decreased visibility, which can impact travel and outdoor engagements.
Meanwhile, in southern Nigeria, the weather is anticipated to be a blend of sunny skies and haziness, particularly over the inland states. The coastal areas are forecasted to enjoy sunny mornings with occasional patches of clouds, offering a brief respite from the dry conditions experienced in other parts of the country.
By the afternoon and evening, however, the forecast takes a dramatic turn as NiMet predicts localized thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rain across Ogun, Lagos, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom states. This shift in weather could potentially lead to flash flooding in areas prone to heavy rainfall, highlighting the importance of keeping updated with local weather developments.
On Friday, the northern region will continue to experience significant weather changes. NiMet warns of persistent moderate dust haze, further reducing horizontal visibility to a concerning 1 kilometer to 3 kilometers in several areas. Some locations may even see visibility drop to less than 1000 meters, making it crucial for residents to remain vigilant and consider adjusting travel plans accordingly.
As the weekend unfolds, it’s essential for Nigerians to stay informed about severe weather conditions and heed any warnings issued by the meteorological agency. NiMet’s proactive communication is vital, especially during times when visibility is compromised, and sudden storms can emerge. The public is encouraged to follow weather updates routinely and to prepare for potential disruptions, particularly in regions expecting heavy rains.
The weather forecast reflects broader seasonal patterns typical of Nigeria’s climate cycle, with dry periods interspersed with sudden storms. Citizens should take precautionary measures, including checking visibility conditions before embarking on journeys and ensuring that properties are secured against potential flooding.
