NiMet Warns of Hazardous Weather and Dust Haze in Nigeria

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a warning regarding hazardous weather conditions expected over the next three days, specifically from Thursday to Saturday. The forecast indicates that thick dust haze will significantly affect several northern states, including Borno, Gombe, Bauchi, Jigawa, Adamawa, Yobe, Kano, and Katsina, leading to reduced air quality and visibility, which may drop to between two to five kilometers.

This situation poses potential health risks, especially for individuals with asthma or respiratory conditions, prompting NiMet to advise vulnerable groups to limit exposure. Additionally, the southern region is expected to experience cloudy skies with intermittent sunshine, followed by thunderstorms and moderate rainfall, particularly in states like Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Abia.

The rainfall may lead to localized flooding and poor road conditions, affecting commercial air travel, especially in low-lying coastal areas. NiMet has urged state governments and transport operators to remain vigilant due to the dual risks posed by dust haze in the north and heavy rainfall in the south.