The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather forecast indicating that the country can expect three consecutive days of cloudiness, rainfall, and thunderstorms spanning from Saturday to Monday. This projection, shared in the agency’s weather outlook on Friday from their Abuja office, provides valuable insights for public awareness and planning.
On Saturday, the northern region is anticipated to experience intervals of sunshine amidst cloudy skies, accompanied by the possibility of early morning thunderstorms in states such as Kebbi, Adamawa, and Taraba. As the day progresses, isolated thunderstorms are projected to occur in parts of Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, and Gombe.
For the north-central region, a cloudy atmosphere is forecasted with the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms over portions of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nasarawa, Niger, and Kwara during the morning hours. Later in the day, intermittent rain and thunderstorms are expected in areas like Plateau, FCT, Niger, Kwara, Benue, and Kogi.
Moving to the South, the inland states as well as the coastal states are anticipated to have cloudy conditions during the morning, with intermittent rains forecasted over Ogun, Oyo, Lagos, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Ebonyi states. The forecast also indicates intermittent rains over parts of Lagos, Ekiti, Edo, Ondo, Oyo, Ogun, and Delta. Meanwhile, the northern region is predicted to experience sunshine along with the possibility of morning thunderstorms in certain areas of Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara. Thunderstorms are also expected in parts of Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Adamawa.
Given these forecasts, NiMet emphasizes the importance for airline operators to remain informed by utilizing weather reports and periodic alerts from NiMet. This proactive approach aids in the effective planning of flight operations, ensuring passenger safety and efficient scheduling.
NiMet’s experts highlight the potential for moderate to heavy rainfall, which could result in flash floods. In light of this, the public is strongly advised to exercise caution, refraining from driving or walking through floodwaters to prevent potential hazards.
Additionally, the agency underscores the significance of preparedness during the rainy season, urging risk and disaster managers, agencies, and individuals to take proactive measures to prevent loss of lives and property. This advisory emphasizes the agency’s commitment to public safety and underscores its role in providing critical weather information to guide informed decision-making.