The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather forecast predicting hazy conditions across the country from Sunday to Tuesday, with reduced visibility in the northern states and thunderstorms in the southern regions.
In its weather outlook released on Saturday in Abuja, NiMet warned of moderate dust haze in the northern part of Nigeria, with horizontal visibility ranging from 2 kilometers to 5 kilometers on Sunday. However, some areas, including Yobe, Kano, Katsina, Gombe, Bauchi, Kaduna, Jigawa, and Niger, are expected to experience localized visibility of 1 kilometer or less.
NiMet’s forecast also indicates that the North Central region will witness a hazy atmosphere, particularly in Kogi, Kwara, and Benue states, with scattered clouds expected. Residents of these areas should brace for reduced visibility as the haze sweeps through the region.
In contrast, the southern region of the country will experience cloudy skies interspersed with periods of sunshine. However, thunderstorms are expected to affect various states, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Ondo, Edo, and Delta, throughout the forecast period.
Looking ahead to Monday, NiMet predicts that the haze will persist across the northern and North Central regions. Visibility in these areas will remain within the range of 2 kilometers to 5 kilometers. Thunderstorms are expected to continue affecting parts of Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta.
By Tuesday, hazy weather conditions are anticipated to continue in the northern and North Central regions. In the southern states, a combination of sunshine and thunderstorms will persist, particularly in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Ondo, Edo, and Delta.
NiMet has issued a health advisory, noting that dust particles will remain suspended in the atmosphere, which may pose health risks. The agency specifically warned individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, to take necessary precautions to limit their exposure to the dusty air.
“The ongoing haze may aggravate respiratory conditions, especially for vulnerable individuals,” said NiMet in its statement. “We advise those with pre-existing conditions to take extra care and limit outdoor activities when possible.”
Furthermore, NiMet has cautioned airline operators to be extra vigilant in light of the hazy conditions. The agency urged operators to obtain updated weather reports regularly to ensure the safety and efficiency of their flight operations during this period.
“As visibility may be significantly reduced in some areas, airlines should adjust flight schedules accordingly and ensure their pilots are briefed on weather conditions to avoid any potential hazards,” NiMet added.
The agency emphasized the importance of staying informed during this period, as fluctuating weather conditions may affect daily activities across the country. While the haze will primarily impact the north, thunderstorms in the south could disrupt travel and other plans.
