ABUJA, Nigeria (NAN) - The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted sunny weather and thunderstorms from Tuesday through Thursday across the nation.
NiMet’s weather forecast released on Monday in Abuja indicated clear skies on Tuesday throughout the northern region for the entire forecast duration.
The agency mentioned that sunny weather accompanied by a few clouds is expected in the North Central region, with the possibility of isolated thunderstorms in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kwara, and Kogi states during the afternoon or evening.
“In the South, there is a likelihood of morning thunderstorms in parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states. Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms are anticipated in regions such as Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Lagos, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Bayelsa States,” it stated.
NiMet also predicted sunny weather across the northern region on Wednesday, with potential morning thunderstorms in southern Taraba State. The forecast suggested sunny conditions with some clouds over the North Central region with the chance of afternoon or evening thunderstorms in parts of the FCT, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kwara, and Kogi states.
“In the South, cloudy weather with periods of sunshine is expected, alongside the possibility of morning thunderstorms over Cross River and Akwa Ibom states. In the afternoon or evening, isolated thunderstorms could occur over regions like Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Ondo, Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta States,” it reported.
For Thursday, sunny weather is anticipated over the northern region throughout the day. NiMet envisions sunny skies with a few clouds over the North Central region, with a chance of isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon or evening in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Plateau, and Nasarawa States.
“In the South, cloudy skies with sunny intervals are likely, and morning thunderstorms may occur in parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom States. Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms are expected over Oyo, Ondo, Abia, Imo, Enugu, Edo, Bayelsa, Cross River, Lagos, Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Rivers States,” it stated.
The agency has urged the public to remain in well-ventilated and cool areas and to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as temperatures remain high in many parts of the country, increasing the risk of heat stress. It also recommended the public get vaccinated against meningitis, adhere to good hygiene practices by regularly washing hands, and avoid overcrowding in small areas.
"Utilize a face mask to decrease the risk of infection and limit close contact with infected individuals. Steer clear of peak sun hours (12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.) and take measures to shield yourself from excessive direct sunlight.
“Strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are expected; the public should exercise proper caution.
“Airline operators are advised to obtain airport-specific weather updates (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective operational planning. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through weather reports from NiMet. it said.