The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that a large portion of the country could be affected by storms and rain for three days beginning Saturday.
According to the agency’s forecast for weather the storms and rain events will impact several states in the south, north as well as central areas. This includes states such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Maiduguri.
NiMet stated that the weather shifts are expected to begin on Saturday with rain showers likely within areas like the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, and a portion in the North-East. It is also possible to see rain in the areas of Cross River, Akwa Ibom as well as Rivers State.
In the later hours of the day, the forecast indicates that the weather is expected to expand to more areas. Rain and thunderstorms are predicted in the areas of Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe and Taraba. Southern cities like Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, and Anambra will also be affected.
This Sunday the patterns is expected to continue. Early morning storms will strike states in the northern and central areas, whereas the southern coastal regions and the inland areas will be flooded with torrential rains. The rain will continue to pour late into the evening in areas such as Edo, Ebonyi, Imo, Abia, and parts of the South-South.
On the Monday of next week, NiMet forecasts similar conditions. Morning storms could impact Abuja, Kaduna, Gombe and Jos. Rain is expected to follow in areas in the south comprising Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Rivers.
NiMet has offered advice to Nigerians to prepare and remain in a safe environment. The agency advised that heavy rains can cause flash flooding, traffic delays and low visibility for motorists. The agency also urged residents in areas with flooding risk to take extra precautions.
The general public is also warned to stay away from shelters in trees during storms because of the danger of lightning. Road transport and airlines are advised to stay on top of the information on the weather.
This rainy period is normal during Nigeria’s wet season. However, experts on weather warn that it is essential to pay attention to warnings to minimize damage and risk.
