The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has released a comprehensive three-day weather forecast warning of widespread thunderstorms across the country, beginning on Thursday, October 5, and lasting through Saturday, October 7.
This advisory comes amidst growing concerns over the intensity of the rainy season, which has already seen significant rainfall and isolated flooding in various regions.
The agency, in its statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, cautioned that thunderstorms and heavy rainfall will affect both northern and southern regions of the country, with a high likelihood of urban flooding and strong winds, which could pose a threat to lives, property, and daily activities.
The forecast also advises air travelers and residents in flood-prone areas to take necessary precautions, as inclement weather could disrupt travel and endanger safety.
Day 1: Thunderstorms to Sweep Northern, Central, and Southern States
According to NiMet, thunderstorms are expected to begin early Thursday morning over several states in the northern region, including Adamawa, Taraba, and Kebbi. These storms, characterized by heavy rainfall and strong winds, are likely to persist throughout the day, spreading to other northern states like Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara by the afternoon and evening.
NiMet’s forecast further extends into the North Central region, where the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Nasarawa, and Benue are expected to witness thunderstorms during the morning hours. As the day progresses, the weather conditions will intensify, with more states in the region, including Kogi, Kwara, and Plateau, experiencing stormy weather in the afternoon and evening.
Southern Nigeria will not be exempt from the turbulent weather, with NiMet predicting thunderstorms over parts of Ondo, Ebonyi, Edo, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River during the morning.
By the afternoon, the storm system is expected to extend further, affecting states like Ekiti, Osun, Enugu, Abia, and Imo, thereby blanketing the southern region with heavy rainfall and the potential for severe flooding.
Residents in these areas are urged to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel, especially during periods of heavy downpour.
Day 2: Continuation of Stormy Conditions Across the Country
On Friday, October 6, the stormy weather is forecasted to continue, with the northern region once again bearing the brunt of the thunderstorms. States such as Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi will see early morning storms, which could disrupt morning activities, particularly in rural communities where access to infrastructure may be limited.
However, NiMet forecasts that the afternoon hours in the northern region could bring a brief reprieve, with intervals of sunshine and patches of clouds expected to follow the morning storms.
Despite this temporary break, residents are advised not to let their guard down, as the weather could change rapidly.
In the North Central region, the thunderstorms will remain a dominant feature, affecting states like Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, and the FCT. Heavy rains in these areas could lead to localized flooding, and NiMet has warned residents to prepare for potential disruptions to transportation and daily activities.
Southern states such as Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom will also experience a continuation of the thunderstorms from Thursday. Morning rains are expected to affect these regions, followed by more severe weather conditions in the afternoon and evening.
Day 3: Stormy Weekend
As the weekend begins on Saturday, October 7, NiMet forecasts yet another day of thunderstorms for many parts of the country. In the northern region, states such as Adamawa, Taraba, and Kebbi will once again experience morning thunderstorms, while states in the North Central region, including Niger, Kogi, and the FCT, will also continue to see stormy weather throughout the day.
The southern region, which has been experiencing heavy rains since Thursday, will also see a continuation of thunderstorms. NiMet forecasts that states like Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Edo, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom will experience intense rainfall and thunderstorms in the morning, which will persist into the afternoon and evening.
As the country braces for this extended period of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, NiMet has emphasized the potential dangers posed by strong winds, which are often a precursor to thunderstorms.
Warnings of Urban Flooding and Strong Winds
In addition to the storm forecast, NiMet has raised alarms over the possibility of urban flooding in major cities, particularly in areas where drainage systems are either blocked or inadequate to handle the projected rainfall. Residents in flood-prone areas have been urged to take precautions, such as clearing drains and securing their homes against potential floodwaters.
NiMet also stressed the importance of staying indoors during thunderstorms, as strong winds and lightning strikes can pose a threat to life and property. The agency advised the public to avoid outdoor activities, particularly near large trees or power lines, during periods of heavy rain and wind.
For those living in low-lying areas or regions prone to flooding, NiMet’s forecast suggests preparing for possible evacuation if water levels rise significantly. The agency also recommends that residents keep emergency supplies, such as food, water, and first aid kits, readily available in case of prolonged storms or power outages.
Air Travel and Public Safety Warnings
With thunderstorms expected to affect large parts of the country, NiMet has urged airline operators to stay informed about the weather conditions. Thunderstorms can significantly impact flight operations, leading to delays or cancellations, and strong winds can pose a risk to takeoffs and landings. Airline operators are advised to consult with NiMet regularly to obtain the latest weather reports and forecasts to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
Public authorities have also been advised to issue safety guidelines to residents, particularly in areas most likely to be affected by the storms. NiMet has called for increased communication between local governments, emergency services, and the public to ensure that adequate safety measures are in place.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant, prepare for possible flooding, and adhere to safety advisories issued by relevant authorities to minimize the risks associated with these severe weather conditions.
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