The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather forecast indicating widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across several parts of the country between Monday and Wednesday.
According to the agency’s weather outlook released in Abuja, thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rainfall are expected on Monday morning over parts of Jigawa, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina States. Later in the day, rainfall is anticipated in Kebbi, Adamawa, and Taraba States.
NiMet warned of the likelihood of flash floods in Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano during this period.
In the central region, including Niger, Benue, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, and Nasarawa, cloudy conditions are expected in the morning, followed by light to moderate rainfall. The agency highlighted a high risk of flooding in parts of Plateau State.
For the southern States, light to moderate rain is expected over Ondo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.
On Tuesday, NiMet predicts a mix of sunshine and patchy clouds in the northern region, with thunderstorms and rainfall persisting in parts of Adamawa, Taraba, and neighbouring States. Central and southern regions will continue to experience moderate rainfall.
By Wednesday, northern States are expected to see sunny conditions in the morning, followed by thunderstorms later in the day. Cloudy skies with moderate rainfall are forecast for the central region, while southern States including Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River will experience morning showers and moderate to heavy rainfall as the day progresses.
The agency advised residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert, activate emergency response plans, avoid driving during heavy downpours, and secure loose items to prevent damage from strong winds. People are also urged to take precautions against cooler night temperatures.
NiMet further recommended disconnecting electrical appliances during thunderstorms and avoiding sheltering under tall trees.
Airline operators were advised to obtain airport-specific weather information for flight planning, while the public was encouraged to visit www.nimet.gov.ng for real-time weather updates.