The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather alert predicting widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential flash floods across the country from Monday to Wednesday, urging residents to take safety precautions and remain informed.
In its three-day weather outlook released on Sunday, NiMet highlighted that various parts of northern, central, and southern Nigeria will experience moderate to heavy rainfall, particularly in flood-prone areas.
Northern Region
On Monday morning, thunderstorms and moderate rainfall are expected across Jigawa, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina States, while other areas will see sunny skies with patches of cloud. Later in the day, Adamawa, Taraba, Kebbi, and additional parts of the north will also experience storms.
Flash flood risks are especially high in Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano States, NiMet warned.
Central Region
The central states, including Niger, Benue, the FCT, Plateau, and Nasarawa, will see cloudy mornings followed by moderate rainfall later in the day. Plateau State was flagged for high flood risk. Similar patterns continue through Tuesday and Wednesday, with thunderstorms expected across Kogi, Kwara, and Abuja.
Southern Region
The southern states will begin with cloudy mornings, transitioning into light to moderate rainfall over Ondo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States. Heavier rains are expected Tuesday and Wednesday across Abia, Delta, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, raising the likelihood of waterlogging in vulnerable communities.
Safety Advisory
NiMet has strongly advised residents in flood-prone zones to:
Avoid driving through flooded roads
Stay indoors during heavy downpours
Secure loose outdoor objects
Disconnect electrical appliances during thunderstorms
Dress warmly, especially vulnerable groups, due to cool night-time temperatures
It also warned of strong winds preceding thunderstorms, urging caution.
Additionally, airline operators have been advised to liaise with NiMet offices for airport-specific weather reports to aid in flight planning and passenger safety.
“Stay updated by visiting our official website: www.nimet.gov.ng the agency advised.
With climate patterns becoming more unpredictable, NiMet reiterated the importance of early warning systems and community preparedness to mitigate potential risks.
