The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across the country from Monday to Wednesday, with varying intensities in different regions. The outlook was released on Sunday in Abuja.
In the northern region, cloudy skies with sunshine intervals are expected, alongside isolated thunderstorms. Light rains are anticipated in parts of Adamawa and Taraba in the mornings, while later in the day, thunderstorms with rains will affect Kaduna, Gombe, Kebbi, Zamfara, Bauchi and other states.
For the central region, NiMet projected cloudy conditions with intervals of sunshine. Thunderstorms and light rains are likely in the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi and Plateau during morning hours, followed by thunderstorms with moderate rains in the afternoon and evening.
The southern region is also expected to experience cloudy conditions with sunshine intervals. Isolated thunderstorms with light rains are forecast in parts of Ebonyi, Abia, Lagos, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom in the mornings, while moderate rains and flash floods are anticipated later in the day.
On Wednesday, NiMet predicted thunderstorms with light to moderate rains across most northern and central states. The southern region will also record thunderstorms and rains, particularly in Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River. States with flood risks have been advised to activate emergency response plans.
NiMet urged farmers to avoid applying fertilizer and pesticides immediately before rainfall to prevent nutrient leaching, while residents were advised to secure loose objects, disconnect appliances, and avoid standing under tall trees during storms. The agency also advised airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather reports for flight planning.